Benefits of strength training for amyloidosis patients
Manifestations of amyloidosis that impact physical function
Musculoskeletal
- Trigger finger
- Osteoarthritis
- Biceps tears (rupture)
- Rotator cuff problems
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Lumbar spine narrowing (stenosis)
Cardiac
- Fatigue
- Breathlessness
- Pounding heart (palpitations)
- Ankle / leg swelling (fluid retention)
- Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
Motor (movement) nerves
- Difficulty walking
- Balance problems
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of hand (grip) strength
Sensory nerves
- Nerve (neuropathic) pain
- Tingling, pins & needles, numbness
- Changed pain & temperature sensitivity
- Loss of skill and ease of hand use (dexterity)
Autonomic nerves
- Dizziness when standing up (orthostatic intolerance)
- Fainting or Blackouts (syncope)
- Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
How can strength training help?
Improved muscle strength & endurance
Boost muscle strength
Regular strength training boosts muscle strength.
Improved endurance
Strength training builds muscles and improves overall endurance. It reduces fatigue.
Activities of daily living
Being stronger & having better endurance means you will be able to do everyday tasks more easily & feel more confident.
Better heart health
Improved circulation
Strength training boosts circulation in the body. This supports heart health and efficiency.
Improved heart function
Strength training helps the heart work better and reduces strain on your cardiovascular system.
Improved blood pressure control
By improving heart function, strength training can help managing blood pressure.
Better overall health
Increased bone density
Makes your bones stronger & harder to break.
Improved insulin sensitivity
Helps your body use sugar from food better, keeping your blood sugar healthy.
Improved neural efficiency
Helps your brain and muscles work together faster & more smoothly.
Improved economy of movement
Makes your movements easier & uses less energy, so you don’t get tired as quickly.
Better quality of life
Increased life satisfaction
People who are stronger and fitter tend to have more life satisfaction.
Improved mood
People who start strength training often experience improved mood, leading to better emotional health.
Better physical function
Strength training not only boosts mood and life satisfaction but also boosts physical function and mobility.
