Physical activity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

For a long time, an intense physical activity has been suspected to be a risk factor for developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Moreover, the patients would like to know if their disease may be worsened by physical activity, but also if physical activity may be useful against spasticity, and if creatine, a nitrogenous compound occurring in the first anaerobic phase of exercise may have an interest. Animal studies suggest a global favourable effect of moderate exercise, but these data cannot be strictly applied in humans. Human studies show that an intense physical activity like football or American football might be a risk factor for developing ALS. Studies are not enough powerful to indicate an interest of exercise after the onset of the disease. Physical activity does not improve the spasticity, and creatine seems not to be effective during ALS. (C) 2014 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.