McArdle disease is a rare metabolic disorder which causes muscle fatigue, cramping, and pain in everyday activities and exercise. It was first described in a paper by Dr. Brian McArdle in 1951. If, despite these warnings, activity is continued in the presence of pain, then muscle damage ensues, with the risk of muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis) and possible kidney failure.

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MANY HAVE DELAYED DIAGNOSIS

Symptoms are usually apparent during the first decade of life, but many people do not manage to obtain a diagnosis until the third or fourth decade. Later in life some people with McArdle disease experience fixed muscle weakness, possibly from cumulative muscle damage or from muscle wasting due to avoidance of activity. IamGSD is working to reduce the average age of diagnosis to below the age of 10.

 

REGULAR ACTIVITY & EXERCISE

It is important for those with McArdle disease to regularly engage in aerobic exercise such as walking. At least 150 minutes per week is advised. It is just as important to avoid more than very brief isometric (static) and anaerobic activities such as lifting heavy weights or sprinting.

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ADAPT AND BOOST AEROBIC FITNESS

It is a major advantage to be diagnosed early and to be given the correct advice. Learning to adapt activities, maintaining aerobic fitness, and keeping weight under control can have a very significant beneficial impact on long-term outcomes.