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Physical therapist
The right exercise plan can help muscles work better
Physical therapists are important members of the healthcare team. They evaluate a person’s muscle strength, balance, range of motion, mobility, and breathing, and develop an individualized exercise plan. The focus of that plan may be to prevent, slow, stop, or reverse problems a person may be experiencing.
Aerobic exercises can increase strength and improve movement
People with late-onset Pompe disease may benefit from low-impact aerobic exercises, such as walking, swimming, or riding a stationary bicycle. Mild or moderate low-impact exercise about 3 to 5 days a week can help:
Make muscles work better
Reduce fatigue
Fight depression
Keep an ideal body weight
Handle pain better
Make a plan to stay active
Before starting a new exercise routine, consult a physical therapist or doctor. They will assess health status and recommend suitable types of exercise.
It’s important to keep track of how exercises affect the body. The physical therapist might suggest specific exercises. These exercises should be done slowly and carefully to prevent injuries and further muscle damage.
Health experts may also check the heart and lungs, especially when someone starts or changes their exercise routine.
Careful monitoring is important
A trained physical therapist makes a plan for exercises, keeps an eye on how the person is doing, and talks to the doctor. They might also teach the person how to check their heart rate and other things before starting exercises at home.