Prioritize regular, low-impact exercise. Walking, swimming, and cycling build strength without stressing joints. Aim for at least 30 minutes most days.
Consult a physical therapist. They create personalized exercises to improve strength, balance, and mobility. Consider working with an occupational therapist to adapt your home environment for safety and ease of movement.
Maintain a healthy diet rich in protein. Protein is vital for muscle repair and growth. Include lean meats, fish, beans, and lentils in your meals.
Manage your calcium and vitamin D intake. Prednisone can affect bone density, increasing fracture risk. Discuss supplementation with your doctor.
Addressing Daily Challenges
Use assistive devices as needed. Canes, walkers, or grab bars provide stability and reduce fall risk. Consider adaptive equipment to simplify everyday tasks.
Prioritize safety. Remove tripping hazards from your home. Ensure adequate lighting. Inform friends and family about your muscle weakness to request help when needed.
Long-Term Monitoring
Regularly monitor your muscle strength. Note any changes and report them to your doctor. Bone density scans may be recommended to track potential bone loss.
Maintain open communication with your healthcare team. They can adjust your medication or recommend therapies to manage muscle weakness and its related effects.
