Overview
Dystonia is a neurological disorder in which muscles spasm, stretch, or contract involuntarily, which can cause pain and an abnormal posture (disability). Dystonia usually starts in one part of the body and may progress over time. Dystonia can affect the neck (Cervical Dystonia), limbs (Focal Dystonia), face (Cranial Dystonia), and other muscle groups. Although the exact cause of Dystonia is not always clear, many researchers and our Dystonia specialists at Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai speculate that it may be largely related to abnormal neural functioning of the brain in addition to genetic and environmental factors. Department of Neurological Surgery at Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, provides state-of-the-art comprehensive and holistic treatment for Dystonia.
We believe that in addition to medical and surgical treatment alternatives, resistance training (or strength training or weight training) can be a valuable approach to developing strength and counter the effects of the disease. The objective of resistance training for Dystonia is to enhance strength, improving muscle function, and control, and improving quality of life, mood, and mental well-being. Here is an overview of how adaptive resistance training is beneficial for dystonia.
The Benefits of Exercise for Dystonia
For Dystonia, we advise a carefully planned exercise routine. Strength training can be done through body weight (calisthenics), resistance band, free weights, or machines, with the former being safer alternatives. Dystonia is seen as being unable to control their movements (physical balance, strength, and stamina) and as a result, they struggle with pain and mental problems. Our team of Dystonia specialists in Mumbai is experienced in comprehensive management of the disease. We can create a personalized dystonia treatment plan for you to help you manage dystonia through resistance training.
Potential Neuroprotective Effects
Neuroplasticity, the ability of neurons to change their structure and function, is an important neurological process. This means that the brain can adjust its structure and improve its functions based on a variety of responses. Muscle contractions in Dystonia are usually the result of disrupted nerve signaling, so stimulating neuroplasticity might help alleviate symptoms. Resistance training stimulates neuroplasticity, which helps to reorganize and control movements. Adaptive resistance training increases the production of neurotrophic factors by promoting blood vessel formation and adult neurogenesis in the brain, which may mediate improvements in motor and cognitive functions as well.
Improved Muscle Function
Dystonia causes muscle weakness, contractions, imbalance, postural stiffness, and pain. Targeted exercises – strength and resistance training can help restore muscle weakness, and balance. According to Dystonia expert doctors, the goal of resistance training is to not only improve muscle function but also cognitive function and overall quality of life. Adaptive resistance training forces muscle fibers to repeatedly contract and stretch, which can also improve joint mobility, and increase motion in dystonia-affected areas. This can help the dystonia patient achieve a greater amount of muscle flexibility, improving overall muscle function and ease of movement.
Enhanced Motor Control
Motor control refers to the neurological functions of coordinating and controlling muscle activity. Problems with motor control usually include weakness in the legs, hand grip, or stiffness, cramps, and pain in the body and muscles. It is known that exercises stimulate the repair of the body. Exercise increases blood supply and oxygen supply to the body, resulting in increased nutrient delivery to the brain, which can stimulate neurogenesis and motor neuron activity. Muscles can be retrained to work together more effectively through special exercises and training. For example, doing exercises that focus specifically on posture and alignment can be useful for postural instability.
Dystonia Pain Management
Dystonia can also cause pain. Pain in Dystonia can be due to stiffness and spastic contraction. Exercise and resistance training can help improve muscle function and joint mobility, and increase range of motion, although supervision and consultation with a Dystonia specialist for specific strength training and coordination exercises may be important. Strength training for dystonic muscles can reduce the severity of involuntary muscle contractions. This is why exercise is always considered part of a holistic approach to dystonia pain management in combination with health care and therapies.
Improved Mood and Mental Well-Being
Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, which is often called the “happy hormone”. Endorphins improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote a sense of overall well-being. Additionally, exercise can help regulate sleep patterns and improve sleep quality. Better sleep in turn elevates mood and supports mental well-being. Although resistance training is not a standalone, it supports management of the disease through psychological support and interventions in addition to medical treatment, and physical therapy.
Types of Resistance Training for Dystonia
Strength training of dystonic muscles can improve balance and overall function. However, when incorporating adaptive resistance training for dystonia into an exercise routine, it is essential to work with a specialist. Our team can help you design an individual and customized exercise program, ensuring safety and efficacy. Here are some options to consider for managing dystonia through resistance training:
Body Weight Exercise
This set of exercises uses your body weight as resistance. Examples include push-ups, squats, lunges, planks, and wall sits. Bodyweight exercises can be adapted to the individual’s fitness level and the type of Dystonia.
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Resistance Band Workout
Resistance bands (large elastic bands) are flexible, portable, and versatile tools in adaptive resistance training for dystonia. They come in different levels of resistance, suitable for all fitness levels. Resistance bands can be used to target different muscle groups during exercise and can be customized to your needs.
Free Weights and Machines
Free weights and machines both train to target specific muscle groups, where free weights, like dumbbells, and barbells, provide adjustable resistance, while machines like leg press, seated curl, and treadmills provide guided movement and controlled resistance. This makes them suitable for Dystonia. It can help improve muscle strength and stability while reducing the risk of worsening symptoms in Dystonia.
Preparing for Resistance Training
The goal of adaptive resistance training in Dystonia is to not only improve muscle function but also to enhance overall quality of life by managing symptoms and increasing functional capacity. In such a situation, consultation with a Dystonia specialist and creating an individualized exercise plan can be crucial. Adaptive resistance training for dystonia may vary depending on the type of Dystonia and individual factors.
Consulting a Dystonia Specialist Doctor
The Dystonia specialist doctors at the Department of Neurosurgery, Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai take a comprehensive approach to improving muscle function, reducing pain, and enhancing the overall quality of life of a patient with Dystonia. Combining adaptive resistance training or exercise with medical treatments helps us maximize the potential benefits of both. Our Dystonia specialist and his team at Jaslok Hospital provide guidance on the exercises you need to do depending on your specific symptoms, along with your treatment and diagnosis.
Creating a Personalized Exercise Plan
Dystonia is a highly variable condition, and the optimal exercise approach may vary from person to person. One of our Dystonia specialists can work with you to create an individualized exercise plan tailored to your specific needs and limitations. Our assessment will help determine the most appropriate exercise program for your situation. However, to create a personalized exercise plan you can focus on:
Choose appropriate exercises:
Choose adaptive resistance training for Dystonia that is safe and appropriate for your condition, these exercises can include strength training, flexibility and mobility exercises, balance exercises, and coordination exercises.
Customize the plan:
Tailor the exercises to your abilities and limitations. That is, focus on exercises affecting specific body parts most affected by Dystonia.
Progressive overload:
Gradually increase or combine the intensity and duration of your exercises to promote improvement of muscle function and strength.
Safety Precautions:
Pay close attention to building strength safely with Dystonia. If you experience pain or exacerbation of symptoms, discontinue exercise and consult your doctor.
Assistive devices:
Depending on your situation, use assistive devices or adaptive devices to make the exercises more comfortable and effective.
Progress monitoring:
Keep a journal to track your progress, observing changes in your dystonia symptoms, pain levels, and improvements in muscle function.
Enhance core strength with Pilates in movement disorders. Explore our blog post: Pilates for Core Strengthening in Movement Disorders
Resistance training can be valuable to develop strength in Dystonia. Dystonia, a complex neurological condition that presents unique challenges. But a well-designed adaptive resistance training program can provide many benefits. Dystonia specialists at Jaslok Hospital can work with you to create personalized exercise plans that are tailored to your specific needs, limitations, and goals.
Adaptive resistance training for dystonia can help improve muscle function, reduce dystonia pain, enhance motor control, and promote better mood and mental well-being. However, safety and caution are paramount, and exercises must be carefully selected and executed. To ensure that the exercise program remains effective and safe, regular monitoring, adjustments, and constant communication with a Dystonia specialist are essential.
By combining the benefits of medical management with adaptive training, individuals with dystonia can not only build strength but also take important steps towards quality of life and dystonia management as per their condition. In this way, resistance training serves as a powerful tool in the journey to living well with Dystonia.
