Exercise in neuromuscular disease

Abstract

In this review, the authors present an overview of the role of exercise in neuromuscular disease (NMD). The authors demonstrate that despite the different pathologies in NMDs, exercise is beneficial, whether aerobic/endurance or strength/resistive training. The authors analyze methodological flaws of existing studies and suggest improvements for future trial protocols. Finally, we discuss specialized exercise training of specific muscles, as well as new technologies adapted from other neurologic disorders, including body-weight-supported treadmill ambulation, robotic-assisted gait training, and neuromuscular electrical stimulation.