Low intensity exercise training in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis - factors influencing eligibility and compliance to the clinical trial.

Background: To date, there are no evidence-based recommendations for physical therapy in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The reason is a low number of related clinical trials (CTs), restricted sample sizes and a high dropout rate. It may influence the profile of the participants, while the final results might not translate to the general ALS population.

Well-being on supportive techniques in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: from neurologists' perspective.

Objective: To investigate intercultural neurologists' perception of well-being in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) using gastrostomy (PEG), non-invasive, and/or invasive ventilation (NIV/IV) and to analyse the determinants and impact on the management of the above medical interventions (MIs).

Methods: The study was based on anonymous questionnaires addressing the clinical approach and personal attitude towards the use of PEG, NIV and IV in ALS patients completed by 465 neurologists: 228 from Germany and 237 from Poland.

Results: The German and Polish neurologists estimated the quality of life in ALS patients using PEG and NIV as neutral, whilst low in individuals using IV.

Physical activity in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Prevalence, patients' perspectives and relation to the motor performance.

Background: There are no recommendations for physical activity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients.

Objective: (i) To describe the prevalence and pattern of physical activity (PA) in ALS patients; (ii) to explore patients' attitude towards PA; and (iii) to investigate the relationship between PA at home environment and the rate of functional decline.

Methods: 96 ALS patients were followed for 6 months at 3-month intervals and assessed by site of disease onset, disease duration, diagnosis delay, functional status, muscle strength, fatigue and prevalence of PA.