Can physical exertion be harmful?

Intense physical activity, including intensive and prolonged physical therapy, can lead to muscle fatigue immediately after the activity. In cases of extreme exertion, this state of fatigue may last for several hours or a few days. This exhaustion can lead to an increase in gait disturbances or a risk of falling. In this respect, physical exertion can result in indirect harm due to persistent exhaustion and an increased risk of falling.

There is no evidence of permanent damage to the nervous system or an increase in nerve cell death caused by physical exertion (including physical therapy). Therefore, concerns that physical activity may accelerate the progression of ALS are unfounded. On the contrary: Maintaining physical activity is of great importance for the musculoskeletal system as well as for the cardiovascular system.