1. Stay Connected to Your Physical Therapist
Your physical therapist will be your best ally and source of information. Stay connected with him. Physical therapists can recommend equipment that will be useful for you now and as your symptoms progress. They will show you the easiest and best methods of moving, using assistive devices and helping to alleviate pain and discomfort. Your physical therapist is also a valuable resource for your family and friends and can teach them how to help you stay mobile and active. Stay in touch with your physical therapist, and always keep regular, scheduled appointments.
2. Stretching Exercises
Stretching exercises are an essential part of any physical therapy program since stretching helps to lengthen and tone muscles and can help increase or maintain strength in muscles that are not yet affected by ALS. Gentle, regular stretching can also alleviate muscle spasms and cramping. Work with a physical therapist on which stretches are most appropriate for you now and in the future. Keep in touch with your therapist as your symptoms progress so you can learn additional or alternative stretches to ease pain and muscle spasms. Do your stretching exercises on a daily basis.
3. Range-of-Motion Exercises
Range-of-motion exercises can ease the strain on joints from muscle spasms associated with ALS. Gentle exercises that take each joint through its normal range of motion will keep blood and nutrients moving through the area and keep joint tissues healthy. These exercises can also help to keep joints mobile and reduce pain and inflammation. Work with your physical therapist to learn how to gently and safely perform these types of exercises. Then remember to do them at home on a daily basis. Never rush through range-of-motion exercises. Perform them slowly and gently.
4. Education on Assistive Equipment
Your physical therapist can be a valuable source of information about specialized equipment that can help you. Ask her to make recommendations as to which devices are better or easier to use and which ones you may not need now but might consider in the future. These can include the use of ramps in your home to avoid having to climb stairs and the use of wheelchairs, mobility scooters and hands-free communication devices as your symptoms progress. Your therapist can show you how to use each new piece of equipment safely and help you remain independent for as long as you are able.
5. Enhance Mobility
At some point have your family or other caregivers meet with your physical therapist. He can teach them ways to support you and help you to remain mobile. Your therapist can show you the best and safest way to get in and out of a mobility scooter or wheelchair, and teach others how to help you with these devices. Be sure to talk to your therapist often about your concerns and ask for assistance as your symptoms progress. Don't wait to discuss these options. This way you can remain active and mobile as long as possible.
