Why should high-intensity exercise be avoided in CMT patients?

Why should high-intensity exercise be avoided in CMT patients?

• A. It has no effect on fatigue.
• B. It can cause excessive fatigue and exacerbate muscle weakness.
• C. It improves endurance too quickly.
• D. It only affects cardiovascular health.

Answer: (B)

High-intensity effort places a heavy load on already fatigable nerves and muscles in CMT. The disease impairs nerve signaling and muscle endurance, so pushing into high intensity can trigger excessive fatigue and worsen strength rather than improve function. That’s why this level of exertion is avoided—to protect muscle function while still allowing safe, progressive activity. Moderate or low-intensity exercise, done gradually, helps maintain conditioning without overtaxing the weakened neuromuscular system.

High-intensity effort places a heavy load on already fatigable nerves and muscles in CMT. The disease impairs nerve signaling and muscle endurance, so pushing into high intensity can trigger excessive fatigue and worsen strength rather than improve function. That’s why this level of exertion is avoided—to protect muscle function while still allowing safe, progressive activity. Moderate or low-intensity exercise, done gradually, helps maintain conditioning without overtaxing the weakened neuromuscular system.