Ways To Cope With Arm Weakness

You can maintain your independence while managing arm weakness. Below is a list of ways you can address symptoms and work around your weakest moments.

Ask About Medication Adjustments

If your arm weakness is greatly affecting your quality of life, talk to your neurologist about your treatment plan. They may suggest adjusting your medication.

Most people with myasthenia gravis start treatment on acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, but the medication may not fully control symptoms. Your doctor may suggest adding corticosteroids or other immunosuppressants. While these medications come with their own risks, they may help reduce symptoms.

Understand Your Triggers

Some everyday factors can trigger flares, making your arm muscles feel fatigued even faster. Not everyone has the same triggers, but knowing yours will help you avoid worsening symptoms.

Many MGteam members have found what makes them feel weaker throughout the day. One member said, “I have to manage my stress at work because I learned it’s a major trigger. It helps me to plan a lot and prepare for the day to reduce work anxiety.”

Another member shared that their symptoms worsen when it’s hot. “I’ve learned to limit my summer projects because my mind says I can do it, but I know I’ll pay for it later,” they said.

Use Aids and Carefully Selected Assistive Devices

Sometimes, using an electric mobility device isn’t about giving up independence; it’s a strategic choice to save your upper body strength for the tasks that matter most. Assistive devices and aids can help some people use their arms better or supplement for strength.

Grabber tools, book holders, and virtual note takers are all examples of devices you can use every day. MGteam members have shared other ideas, like switching from a manual to an electric toothbrush, to ease fatigue.

Since myasthenia gravis can also cause lower body weakness, canes, crutches, walkers, and rollators may be go-to devices. But some people may notice that their arms get fatigued when they use them.

An occupational or physical therapist can evaluate how you’re using your device. If you’re using your upper body too much for support, you may need training on how to use the device differently. Or, it may be a sign to upgrade to a scooter or wheelchair for longer distances to preserve upper body strength.

Plan Ahead

Whether you’re heading to the store or traveling across the country, thinking ahead can help you keep your arm strength and provide peace of mind.

Plan grocery shopping and other errands in the morning or the time of day when you’re the strongest, and allow extra time for rest breaks. Bring assistive devices or aids, such as a grabber tool to reach items on tall shelves. Don’t hesitate to ask for help, delegate, or postpone nonessential activities.

And when preparing to travel, talk to your doctor about what to plan for based on your symptoms. You may also want to check all your luggage and use a small backpack as your personal item.

Modify Your Home

You might consider adjusting your home to make everyday tasks easier. Some rehabilitation professionals receive specialized training in home modifications and can evaluate your home and recommend practical changes based on your symptoms and design restrictions.

Not all modifications need huge renovations. Start with small adjustments.

For example, organizing your bathroom so your toothbrush, face wash, and other daily self-care items are stored at waist height rather than in medicine cabinets can greatly reduce daily shoulder strain. And in the kitchen, consider storing common or heavy cooking items (such as mixers) in easy-to-reach spots.

Learn How To Exercise

Many MGteam members make exercise a priority with myasthenia gravis. “Two things make me feel good physically and mentally: Strength training three times per week, and my afternoon rest,” said one member.

Gentle exercise is safe for many people and has been shown to improve muscle and nerve communication (though more research is needed to understand how). People with controlled symptoms or who are in remission (a period with fewer or no symptoms) can regain strength and maintain an exercise routine. Start slow as you build up endurance and strength, and allow for plenty of rest.

If you’re not sure how to exercise safely with myasthenia gravis, talk to your doctor about seeing a physical therapist who can guide you and help you avoid overexertion or injury that could cause muscle pain.