Kinetics for PSCers
Exercise Considerations for People with
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Julianne Vasichek & Cameron Wohl
How can exercise help a PSCer?
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Maintain or increase energy levels
Excretion of waste products, oxygenation of body
Help combat muscle wasting or weight gain
Aid in coping mentally with disease
Maintain connections with friends
Keep you focused on a goal (such as getting out of bed)
Many PSCer’s are out there exercising!
Define exercise in terms of YOU!
Exercise is fun, except when
you’ve been hit by a train!
 Exercise at home or in the area nearby
 Always have a pile of exercise clothes
accessible
 Start simple, be easy on yourself
 Find a few exercise buddies, or group class
 Exercise in short bouts, talk to instructors
 Find fabrics that minimize itching
 Always have something to hydrate you and
emergency snacks
 Have a purpose! (Fun or fundraising)
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
What to ask when your doctor says, “Try to exercise regularly.”
•What is an appropriate intensity for exercise?
•How long should I exercise for at one time?
•How many times should I exercise per week?
•Are there any exercises I should avoid for my (liver pain,
swelling, fatigue, transplant status)?
•If I am feeling asymptomatic is there anything I should
avoid?
For pre- and post-transplant PSCer’s.
•Should I be exercising in a public facility or at home?
•Are there any types of exercise I should avoid to
minimize stress on the liver area?
•What types of intensities, frequencies, and durations
should I be aiming at for my workouts?
Symptom Considerations
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Itching
Fatigue
Nausea
Liver Pain
Joint Pain
Ascites or other swelling
Dietary restrictions
Hydration
Intensity (Does increased intensity cause pain?)
Oxygen is good!
Some exercise can increase the flow of
blood and oxygen without a high intensity
 Light, continuous aerobic
exercise
 Yoga, gentle and
incorporating breath
 How long?
 Tai chi, Qi-Chong
 Deep breathing, meditation
Increased circulation helps the body
get rid of waste products.
Positive, purposeful exercise may bring
something positive to your life.