Impact of a 12-week Strength Training Program on Fatigue, Daytime Sleepiness, and Apathy in Men with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1

Background: Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a multisystemic neuromuscular disorder causing a plea of impairments, of which fatigue and apathy are some of the most frequent non-muscular symptoms. No curative treatment exists to date, and patients only have access to limited effective care, which are intended to decrease the burden of specific symptoms in daily life. Objective: This study aimed to assess whether a 12-week strength training program has an impact on fatigue/daytime sleepiness, apathy, and disease burden in men with DM1. Methods: Eleven participants completed the Fatigue and Daytime Sleepiness Scale (FDSS) and the Myotonic Dystrophy Health Index (MDHI) at baseline, at 6 and 12 weeks, and at 6 and 9 months. Also, the Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES) was filled out at baseline, at 12 weeks, and at 6 and 9 months. Results: Results show significant effects of the training program both on apathy and fatigue/daytime sleepiness, effects that are respectively greater at three and six months after the end of the program than at its very end. However, no difference was observed regarding the overall disease burden. Conclusions: These findings are promising for patients with DM1 considering that few non-pharmacological treatments are available.