Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-04-06
Regular, low-impact exercise is strongly recommended for individuals with Scleroderma as it helps maintain joint flexibility, improves circulation, and preserves muscle strength. Benefits and Safety Living with Scleroderma often leads to skin thickening and joint contractures; staying active is one of the most effective ways to combat these changes. Exercise helps manage fatigue, improves cardiovascular health, and boosts mood by releasing endorphins.
13 people with Scleroderma have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.
Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by Scleroderma? Which activities would you suggest and how intense should they be?
Exercise with Scleroderma: which activities patients recommend or avoid, and what the evidence says.
Regular, low-impact exercise is strongly recommended for individuals with Scleroderma as it helps maintain joint flexibility, improves circulation, and preserves muscle strength.
Benefits and Safety
Living with Scleroderma often leads to skin thickening and joint contractures; staying active is one of the most effective ways to combat these changes. Exercise helps manage fatigue, improves cardiovascular health, and boosts mood by releasing endorphins. While you may feel hesitant, movement is medicine for patients managing Scleroderma.
Recommended Activities
- Range-of-Motion Exercises: Daily stretching is crucial to prevent skin tightening and joint stiffness.
- Aquatic Therapy: Swimming or water aerobics provide resistance without putting high impact on joints, making them ideal for those with Scleroderma.
- Walking: A consistent, low-intensity cardiovascular activity that supports heart and lung health.
- Gentle Yoga or Tai Chi: Excellent for balance, flexibility, and stress reduction.
Pacing and Adaptations
The key to success is "pacing." On days when your symptoms are flaring or fatigue is high, do not push through the pain. Instead, adapt your routine by performing shorter, lighter sessions or focusing solely on gentle range-of-motion movements. Always listen to your body; if you feel pain that persists after activity, scale back the intensity.
Starting Safely
Before beginning any new regimen, consult your rheumatologist to ensure your heart and lung function are stable. A physical therapist specializing in connective tissue disorders can create a personalized program tailored to the specific skin and joint challenges of your Scleroderma. Avoid high-impact activities or heavy weightlifting that could overstress fragile skin or inflamed joints until you have professional clearance.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare team before starting an exercise program, especially when managing a chronic condition.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Scleroderma
- Scleroderma Foundation: Exercise and Scleroderma
- Orphanet: Systemic Sclerosis
Posted Apr 1, 2017 by Fashah 1150
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Posted May 18, 2017 by Montse 1151
Light exercises so as to not cause more damage.
The pillars would be ideal.
Posted Sep 30, 2017 by Carol 1000
