How physical therapy can help with hATTR-PN
Fact-checked by If you live with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy (hATTR-PN), you know it comes with its own set of unique challenges around movement and balance.
Because hATTR-PN impacts the nerves, you may experience a range of symptoms that could progress over time, making movement painful and challenging.
Physical therapy for hATTR-PN can help you stay mobile, prevent falls, manage pain, support gait, and make daily tasks easier while your medical doctors focus on managing your hATTR-PN symptoms.
How hATTR-PN affects movement
In hATTR-PN, abnormal deposits of transthyretin protein build up in tissues and organs. Over time, this buildup interferes with nerve function and can gradually affect mobility.
As nerve function changes, you may notice differences in sensation, strength, coordination, and overall control of movement. Tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in the hands, feet, and lower legs are common symptoms and can make walking or other everyday movements more difficult.
Movement may also be affected when your autonomic nervous system, which helps regulate heart rate, blood pressure, and other functions, is involved. When this system is disrupted, you may feel lightheaded or dizzy upon standing up, which can further compromise balance and mobility.
Importance of physical therapy for hATTR-PN
Physical therapy can play a crucial role in managing hATTR-PN, particularly when symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness, pain, or balance issues begin to interfere with your daily activities.
During physical therapy, your therapist will work with you to build strength and endurance, improve movement and function, and develop strategies for coping with nerve-related symptoms. They may also recommend assistive devices to support safer movement.
Building strength and endurance
Physical therapy can help increase muscle mass and strength in hATTR-PN through structured exercise.
For amyloidosis, according to the Amyloidosis Research Consortium, experts recommend the following (if approved by your doctor):
- moderate-intensity cardio
- 5/10 effort, meaning you can still speak while exercising
- 50% to 75% of your maximal heart rate
- 150 minutes per week or 20-30 minutes per day of exercise
- exercises like walking, biking, swimming, rowing, water aerobics, or hiking
Because hATTR-PN can affect heart health, you may find that you have diminished exercise tolerance. It may be challenging for you to work up a sweat without experiencing dizziness, palpitations, or arrhythmias.
A physical therapist can help you find ways to work out safely and effectively, within your range of capabilities.
Improving balance and preventing falls
Physical therapists can help you maintain your balance and reduce your risk of falls. They examine how your body senses movement and can guide you through exercises designed to improve both static (standing still) and dynamic (moving) balance.
Some therapists even use specialized tools to assess your movement and adjust exercises to fit your specific needs.
Physical therapists can also suggest changes at home to make daily life safer. Simple adjustments — such as removing loose rugs, adding brighter lighting, or installing grab bars and shower chairs — can make a big difference in reducing your fall risk.
Using assistive devices
Your physical therapist can help you determine which mobility and assistive devices you may need to use. For example, they may recommend using canes, walkers, rollators, or crutches to help you move around during the day.
The assistive devices they recommend will depend on your unique needs. Ultimately, your physical therapist’s goal is to help you stay active and mobile.
Creating a long-term plan
Creating a long-term plan with a physical therapist can give you a sense of direction and control over your diagnosis and disease journey.
You and your physical therapist should work closely with your multidisciplinary care team to address your needs (such as pain or balance issues) and your goals (like increasing mobility and stamina).
Because hATTR-PN is a progressive disease, finding a physical therapist who is knowledgeable about the disease is key. They will be able to help you as your needs change over time.
Amyloidosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
