Treatment for McArdle's disease, which is a genetic problem that causes intense cramps in the muscles while exercising, should be guided by an orthopedist and a physiotherapist to adapt the type and intensity of physical activity to the symptoms presented.
Generally, the muscle aches and pains caused by McArdle's disease come about by performing more intense activities, such as running or bodybuilding. However, in some cases, symptoms can also be triggered by simpler exercises such as eating, sewing, and even chewing.
Thus, the main precautions to avoid the onset of symptoms include:
- Doing muscle warming before starting any type of physical exercise, especially when it is necessary to do more intense activities like running;
- Maintain regular physical exercise, about 2 to 3 times a week, because lack of activity causes a worsening of symptoms in the simplest activities;
- Do regular stretches, especially after doing some type of exercise, as it is a quick way to relieve or prevent the onset of symptoms;
Although McArdle's disease has no cure, it can be controlled with adequate physical exercise-guided physical exercise, and therefore patients with this type of disease can have a normal, independent life without major limitations .
Here are some stretches to do before walking: Stretching exercises for legs.
Symptoms of McArdle's Disease
The main symptoms of McArdle's disease, also known as Type V Glycogenosis, include:
- Excessive fatigue after short physical exercise;
- Cramps and intense pain in the legs and arms;
- Hypersensitivity and swelling in the muscles;
- decreased muscle strength;
- Dark urine.
These symptoms arise from birth, however, they can be noticed only during adulthood, since, usually, they are associated with lack of physical preparation, for example.
Diagnosis of McArdle's disease
The diagnosis of McArdle's disease should be made by an orthopedist, and a blood test is usually used to evaluate the presence of a muscle enzyme called Creatine kinase, which is present in cases of muscle injury, such as those that occur in McArdle's disease.
In addition, your doctor may use other tests, such as muscle biopsy or ischemic forearm tests, to look for changes that may confirm the diagnosis of McArdle's disease.
Although it is a genetic disease, McArdle's disease is unlikely to be passed on to the offspring, however, genetic counseling is recommended if you are planning to become pregnant.
When to go to the doctor
It is important to go to the ER immediately when:
- The pain or cramps do not relieve after 15 minutes;
- Urine color is darkened for more than 2 days;
- There is intense swelling in a muscle.
In these cases it may be necessary to be hospitalized for injecting serum directly into the vein and balancing the energy levels in the body, avoiding the onset of serious injury to the muscles.
