Scleroderma

Question 1

Pathophysiology of Scleroderma:

Answer 1

• Systemic sclerosis• Systemic over-production of collagen• May be genetic

Question 2

Signs and Symptoms

Answer 2

Raynaud’s syndromePulmonary fibrosis – pulmonary hypertensionRenal – proteinuria, hypertensionCardiac – scarring – arrythmias, pericarditisGI system – acid reflux, constipation, diarrheaSexual dysfunction in men and women

Question 3

Exercise Recommendations of Scleroderma:

Answer 3

• 12 weeks resistance and aerobic training• 4 sets at 8–12RM• 20 minutes aerobic training at 70% - 80% of VO2peak

Question 4

What are the acute and chronic responses to exercise in people with Scleroderma:

Answer 4

• Counteracts muscle weakening effects of the disease• Counteracts aerobic deconditioning effects of the disease

Question 5

Contraindications to Exercise:

Answer 5

• Evidence of cardiac distress (chest pain, dyspnoea)• Evidence of pulmonary distress (chest pain, dyspnoea)• Evidence of autonomic system disorder (syncope, diaphoresis)