Arnold Chiari

Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by Arnold Chiari? Which activities would you suggest and how intense should they be?

See if it is advisable for people with Arnold Chiari to practice sports and which ones are the most recommended if you have Arnold Chiari

Arnold Chiari malformation is a condition characterized by structural defects in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance and coordination. It occurs when the lower part of the cerebellum extends into the spinal canal, causing compression and disruption of normal brain function. Symptoms of Arnold Chiari can vary widely, but they often include headaches, neck pain, dizziness, balance problems, and muscle weakness.

When it comes to exercise and physical activity for individuals affected by Arnold Chiari, it is important to approach it with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. While exercise can have numerous benefits for overall health and well-being, it is crucial to consider the specific limitations and symptoms associated with Arnold Chiari.

Low-impact aerobic exercises are generally recommended for individuals with Arnold Chiari as they minimize strain on the neck and spine. These exercises help improve cardiovascular fitness, maintain muscle tone, and enhance overall endurance. Some suitable low-impact aerobic activities include:

Walking: Walking is a gentle exercise that can be easily modified to suit individual fitness levels. It helps improve circulation, strengthen muscles, and maintain joint flexibility.

Swimming: Swimming and water aerobics are excellent choices as they provide resistance without putting stress on the joints. The buoyancy of water also helps reduce pressure on the spine.

Cycling: Stationary biking or using a recumbent bike can be beneficial for cardiovascular fitness while minimizing strain on the neck and back.

Elliptical training: Using an elliptical machine can provide a low-impact cardiovascular workout while engaging multiple muscle groups.

Strength training exercises can also be incorporated into a fitness routine for individuals with Arnold Chiari. However, it is essential to focus on exercises that do not strain the neck or exacerbate symptoms. Some suitable strength training exercises include:

Bodyweight exercises: Exercises such as squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks can help improve overall strength and stability without placing excessive strain on the neck and spine.

Resistance band exercises: Using resistance bands can provide a controlled and adjustable level of resistance for strengthening various muscle groups.

Lightweight training: Incorporating light dumbbells or weight machines with proper form and technique can help maintain muscle tone and strength.

It is crucial to emphasize that the intensity of exercise should be tailored to the individual's capabilities and symptoms. It is recommended to start with low-intensity exercises and gradually increase the duration and intensity as tolerated. Listening to the body and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms is essential.

Stretching and flexibility exercises are also beneficial for individuals with Arnold Chiari as they help improve range of motion, reduce muscle tension, and enhance overall flexibility. Some suitable stretching exercises include:

Gentle neck stretches: Slowly tilting the head from side to side, forward and backward, and gently rotating the neck can help relieve muscle tension and improve flexibility.

Shoulder and upper back stretches: Stretching the shoulders and upper back can help alleviate tension and improve posture.

Hamstring stretches: Stretching the hamstrings can help maintain flexibility and reduce strain on the lower back.

Yoga or Pilates: These practices focus on gentle stretching, controlled movements, and breathing techniques, which can be beneficial for individuals with Arnold Chiari. However, it is important to avoid poses or movements that involve excessive neck flexion or compression.

Before starting any exercise program, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional familiar with Arnold Chiari and its associated symptoms. They can provide personalized recommendations, consider any potential risks, and ensure that exercise is safe and appropriate for the individual's specific condition.

In conclusion, exercise can be beneficial for individuals affected by Arnold Chiari, but it should be approached with caution and under professional guidance. Low-impact aerobic exercises, strength training exercises, and stretching/flexibility exercises can all be incorporated into a fitness routine. However, it is important to start with low intensity, listen to the body, and avoid activities that worsen symptoms. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to ensure exercise is safe and tailored to the individual's specific condition.

by Diseasemaps

Light excerise, nothing strenuous.

4/12/17 by Ljdb 2620

I exercise on a regular basis ( 5-6 times a week) but since I've had the surgery 10 years, I have tried many different types of exercising. Swimming seems to cause me the least amount of pain.

5/10/17 by El_Choppo 1250

Yes you should exercise to try and prevent muscle atrophy IF you are able. Those exercises need to be low impact, for instance swimming, walking, yoga, tai chi, etc. You need to avoid impact exercises such as anything that involves jumping, bouncing, bumping, or jarring of the neck or spine in any way. Avoid roller coasters and trampolines and chiropractors unless they are specifically trained to deal with these conditions. Do not use traction at a physical therapist office. Also, consider hobbies such as gardening, even if you need an upright garden that stands at your level for less stooping. Working with PT on balance and posture exercises is good as long as it doesn't aggravate other conditions such as Tarlov cyst disease or tethered cord syndrome.

5/10/17 by Aimes 1051

Low impact, nothing that causes sudden movement of your head.

5/10/17 by Reagan 1100

Exercise will help keep the patient active. Avoid heavy lifting exercises, and anything that puts stress on the neck and shoulders.

5/10/17 by Kathleen Giffin Bartkus 1000

Most Chiarians who are symptomatic cant perform any exercise. As in my case, exertion is my enemy. I can't breathe and my heart rate will climb to 150 bpm after simply standing and walking a few steps.

5/10/17 by 1000

You should continue to lightly exercise But should be checked with your specialist team around your limitations Some lifting can aggravate Pushing and using pressure can aggravate Walking as long as pain is under control could be ok, but even that could cause more discomfort

7/23/17 by Erena 2000

This will vary from person to person. I myself cannot do much but I am aware of Chiarians who work out often!

8/30/17 by Michelle 2000

I would say walking, possibly cycling if you can obtain an upright posistion, stretching exercises approved by your doctor

5/27/18 by xyzmike1 3050

walking , light weight exercise with low intensity

11/29/19 by TRIPLE-1 CHIARI 2500

si, es aconsejable para que, de a poco, se vaya disminuyendo los dolores por el cansancio. se podría hacer: natación, ejercicios no tan bruscos, danzas, etc

6/16/20 by valen bazan 1200

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This will be a function of the patient's case. Who better to decide what you can or can't do, is the patient in conjunction with the specialist handling your case. Neurologist/Neurosurgeon will determine what is recommended or not. Although given the current state of our health care system, there is a lot of misinformation on the part of clinicians, and many do not agree. In my case, only 1 neurologist of 18, you are advised not to perform any type of activity. You have made a case, I would still lay in bed. However the exercise it has given me back a life free of symptoms for 17 years. The intensity should always start with a light to gentle. Depending on the results in weeks, you can gradually increase until the patient finds an intensity in which you feel comfortable and not cause him discomfort.

5/17/17 by Lynda Estrada. Translated

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It is recommended to avoid loss of mobility. But after the operations it is suggested not to make contact sport

8/30/17 by Candelaria. Translated

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We can do some sports but not all.

10/1/17 by Roosz Elsa. Translated

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Yes, it is very important to stay active and in motion. The frequency varies in each one, what I recommend is Yoga.

11/2/17 by Pochi. Translated

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avoid contact sports, I recommend swimming to strengthen neck and rest of the body without adverse effects

11/2/17 by Martin. Translated

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It is always good sport is that you have to be type swimming,yoga,pillars..often...it depends of each one and of the day, you must listen to your body,I what something is to go too far

11/2/17 by Noelia. Translated

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It is very good to do stretches to keep the muscles free of spasm. Impact sports, jumps, and excess of force tend to be contra-indicated, it is ideal to listen to your body. No one better than you yourself know that you are capable of doing. If you see that the zumba cause you more pain, don't do it, if on the contrary you feel better, follow up with them.

11/22/17 by Vanesa. Translated

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