Rehabilitation may improve strength in inclusion body myositis; fall prevention remains uncertain
A systematic review links leg muscle weakness with balance problems and finds support for some rehabilitation outcomes, while consistent reductions in fall risk remain unproven.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
The review found moderate evidence that rehabilitation can improve strength and functional capacity in people with inclusion body myositis. However, consistent reduction in fall risk has not been established. Better muscle performance and easier movement are relevant outcomes, but they should not be presented as proof that people will experience fewer falls.
The abstract gives no intervention effect sizes, follow-up durations or comparison-group details. Its authors describe a need for larger, higher-quality studies and standardized rehabilitation protocols, particularly to clarify fall prevention.
Why leg control matters
The review identifies weakness around the knee and ankle as contributors to balance problems during rising, sitting, walking and stair use. Poor control while lowering the body and difficulty lifting the foot were highlighted as relevant movement problems.
What rehabilitation changed
Resistance training and neuromuscular electrical stimulation showed moderate evidence of gains in strength and functional capacity. Practising standing up and sitting down also appeared promising for mobility, but these findings leave the central question of fall reduction unresolved.
The original publication
Quadriceps and ankle weakness in inclusion body myositis: impact on descending balance control and rehabilitation strategies - a systematic review.
Jeon W, Dalby A, Hermanns M et al.
BMC Musculoskelet Disord · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41639848
- Record checked
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