My rheumatologist ordered physical therapy for my shoulder and ankle pain due to inflammatory arthritis. I gave the physical therapist my history including mg and taking mestinon. She assessed me and said my arms were very weak, so were my legs, and even my core was somewhat weak. She said my shoulders and ankles were probably hurting because my other muscles were weak and gave me abdominal and leg exercises to do. This seems useless to me, like it will only tire me out. Can exercise improve my strength or maybe do I need more mestinon? Should I call my neuromuscular specialist?

My situation is similar to mimc's and I welcome thoughts and opinions. I have osteoarthritis and have considered physical therapy. I agree that the neuro should be brought on board and give his blessing. I was evaluated by a PT during my MG appointment at the local MDA clinic, and was given stretch bands and exercise instructions that are all still sitting in a drawer. I am, however, able to walk a mile around my neighborhood which helps my knees. I'm reconsidering PT as the pain in my shoulders wake me at night, making the MG problematic the next day. Thanks, Jim

I have similar issues. I currently do aquatic physical therapy. With the warm water I am able to do about 45 minutes in the pool before I need to be done. I take breaks between exercises and sit down with the jets. I have just had my first physical therapy progress review and after 6 weeks my leg strength has improved quite a bit.

If possible aquatic physical therapy may be something to look into. Oh and always take a mestinon before physical therapy and set morning appointments. Good Luck!

I did call my neuromuscular office and they suggested a different physical therapy place that is more familiar with myasthenia gravis. I couldn't get an appointment until the 23rd. I am hopeful that it will be more beneficial.