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Physical training effects in myasthenia gravis

E L Lohi¹, C Lindberg, O Andersen

¹Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

|November 1, 1993

Summary

Strength training is safe for individuals with myasthenia gravis (MG). This exercise program improved muscle force in patients with mild to moderate MG without adverse effects.

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Area of Science:

Neurology
Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease characterized by fluctuating muscle weakness.
The role of physical training in managing MG symptoms and improving muscle function remains an area of investigation.
Previous research has yielded mixed results regarding the safety and efficacy of exercise interventions in MG patients.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a structured strength training program in patients with mild to moderate myasthenia gravis.
To assess the impact of strength training on maximal voluntary muscle force and muscle fatigue in affected individuals.
To determine if strength training leads to any adverse effects or exacerbation of MG symptoms.

Main Methods:

Eleven patients diagnosed with mild or moderate myasthenia gravis participated in the study.
A supervised strength training program consisting of 27 to 30 sessions over ten weeks was implemented.
Measurements included voluntary maximal muscle force and fatigue during repetitive isometric contractions in three key muscle groups.

Main Results:

A statistically significant increase of 23% in maximal voluntary muscle force was observed in knee extension on the trained side (p < 0.05).
The untrained side showed only a 4% increase in knee extension force, highlighting the localized effect of training.
Minimal changes were recorded in maximal muscle force for elbow flexion/extension and in fatigue tests across all measured muscle groups.

Conclusions:

Supervised strength training can be safely undertaken by individuals with mild to moderate myasthenia gravis.
This exercise modality can lead to measurable improvements in muscle strength, particularly in trained muscle groups.
The findings suggest that targeted physical training may be a beneficial adjunct therapy for enhancing physical function in MG patients.

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