After the initial evaluation, most patients receive physical therapy, nutritional counseling and stress-management psychotherapy once a week for about 8 weeks. Physical therapists assess muscle weakness and pain, evaluate posture and walking as well as assistive devices, past and present, such as braces and crutches. An appropriate non-fatiguing stretching program will be provided.
Occupational therapists explore the ways in which daily activities are performed.
They identify techniques and devices that will conserve energy and decrease fatigue, muscle weakness and pain. Patients keep daily logs of their activities and symptoms to help identify the cause of their symptoms. Registered dietitians will help you increase the amount of protein you eat, reduce portion size and carbohydrate intake to increase energy and manage weight. Sleep, breathing and swallowing evaluations may also be recommended. Thereafter, patients return for follow-up clinics at any time they have new problems.