Hurler syndrome, classified as a mucopolysaccaharidoses or MPS disorder, is a rare, inherited metabolic disease that affects the visual, digestive, musculoskeletal and respiratory systems. Physical therapy exercises for Hurler syndrome concentrate on strengthening and stretching your musculoskeletal system to prevent disease advancement while improving everyday comfort levels and movement. Exercises can help lessen symptoms, maintain muscle strength and enhance joint function. Since every condition level differs, receive medical clearance before starting any exercise.
Gentle Wrist Bends
Many afflicted with Hurler syndrome develop carpal tunnel syndrome, which can include numbness, tingling and nighttime pain, clumsiness and weakened hand functioning. Individuals can relieve symptoms by stretching out the hands, wrists and forearms. Try some extended wrist bends. While either sitting or standing upright with your feet shoulder-width apart, gently extend your right arm in front of your body, keeping your elbow straight. Let your hand hang freely, palm facing the floor. Place your left hand over your right lower hand. Gently pull your right hand toward the floor. Hold the stretch 10 seconds. Release and return to the original position. Relax for 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise 10 times, then repeat with your left arm.
Hydrotherapy
Hip pain and joint stiffness associated with spinal deformities such as scoliosis or kyphosis commonly occur among individuals afflicted with Hurler syndrome. Exercising in water, known as hydrotherapy, can prove especially beneficial for strengthening and stretching muscles. Water exercises utilize natural buoyancy that supports the majority of body weight and takes pressure off the joints. Less joint pressure results in less painful and restrictive movement. Physical therapy exercises for Hurler syndrome can include some gentle hip flexions. Stand upright in warm water to naturally relax your muscles and do a leg swing. Stand with your right side against the pool's side. Hold onto the side and swing your left leg forward and hold for five seconds. Swing your leg backward and hold for five seconds. Return to the original position. Relax 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise 10 times, then switch legs.
Spinal Flexibility
Keeping the spinal column flexible plays a key role during physical therapy for Hurler syndrome. Doing gentle range of motion maneuvers will provide many benefits, including increasing blood circulation, lengthening the spine, preventing further stiffness, lowering pain levels and improving quality of life. Start by sitting upright in a firm chair. Gently lift both arms overhead as far as possible. Hold the position for five seconds. Slowly return to the original position. Relax for 10 seconds. Repeat 10 times.
Strengthen Postural Muscles
Strengthening your back muscles helps stabilize your spinal column and works on improving postural muscles. Start including some tray holding maneuvers as part of your physical therapy. Sit upright in a firm chair. Lift both arms in front of you while lightly touching your elbows to your sides. Turn both palms facing upward. Slowly bring your right elbow back, then your left elbow back. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and hold this position for 10 seconds. Slowly return to the original position. Relax for 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
