Leg Exercises For Inclusion Body Myositis

Inclusion body myositis, or IBM, is an inflammatory condition of the muscles. IBM results in weakened and atrophied muscles. Exercise was not encouraged for patients with IBM prior to studies that were conducted in the 1990s, according to the "Medical Journal of Australia." These studies showed that mild to moderate exercise can be beneficial for those with IBM and that muscle inflammation does not get worse with exercise.

Benefits of Exercise for IBM

Exercise is not a cure for your IBM, but it can help you with some aspects of the condition. Exercise can improve your flexibility, support your cardiovascular condition and increase your muscle strength. According to the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, though exercise may not regenerate the muscles that have already been damaged by IBM, exercise will help maintain and strengthen the muscles you have. Exercise may prevent further loss of muscle tissue and may also help you decrease the amount of medication you need.

Exercise Precautions

Before starting an exercise program, talk to your doctor to make sure exercise is right for you. Wait until your medication takes effect before beginning an exercise program. Make sure you are mentally alert when you exercise, so you avoid a fall. Also make sure that you are well rested and well hydrated. Be aware of any flare-ups of your condition. Exercise during a flare may compromise your muscles, because they may not be able to heal from the micro-damage that is caused by exercise.

Physical Therapy

Talk to your doctor about whether she thinks you need to see a physical therapist, who can design an exercise program for your specific needs. A physical therapist can show you how to maximize the benefits of exercise and how to perform your exercises without harming your muscles. Physical therapy can help prevent permanent shortening of your muscles. Do not rely on a trainer at a gym to have the knowledge to instruct someone with myositis.

Stretching Exercises

A program of stretching exercises can help to maintain the range of motion in your weakened legs and arms. According to the Arthritis Foundation, yoga and tai chi are good flexibility workouts. Simple stretches such as reaching for your toes or the sky are beneficial. Do not bounce when you stretch. Hold a stretch for 20 to 30 seconds.

Exercises to Build Muscle

A physical therapist can show you how to do gentle muscle strengthening exercises for your legs using a large elastic band. Swimming, walking and cycling can be beneficial for your legs. A study on IBM and exercise in the British journal "Rheumatology" showed that participants benefited from a 15-minute walk. Swimming might be the preferred exercise for some patients with IBM, because it does not stress your muscles too much. Lifting weights is not a good exercise for someone with IBM because it can damage inflamed muscles.