How to Avoid Exercise-Induced Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis is a rare disorder involving skeletal muscle breakdown, in which muscle proteins called myoglobin enter the bloodstream. This disorder is associated with taking certain prescription drugs, such as statins, and with crushing injuries. It also can occur after prolonged exercise or extreme exertion, and has been linked to marathon running and military training. Preventing rhabdomyolysis is crucial because severe cases lead to kidney damage and can be life-threatening. Taking certain precautions during exercise helps to avoid this disorder.

Things You'll Need

  • Sports drinks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Avoid being a weekend warrior who goes to exercise extremes once or twice a week. Living a sedentary life most of the time and then going overboard on weekends can easily lead to injury, and also increases the risk of rhabdomyolysis.

    • 2

      Increase your workout level gradually over a long time rather than dramatically over a short time. The University of Michigan Health System recommends increasing workout levels, such as miles you run, no more than 10 percent every week.

    • 3

      Avoid becoming overheated during exercise, as this increases the risk of rhabdomyolysis. If you are sweating profusely, you may be risking heat stroke. Don't perform strenuous exercise during hot weather, and avoid wearing heavy sports equipment during this type of weather.

    • 4

      Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after exercising to stay hydrated and prevent muscle damage. If any myoglobin has been released, staying well-hydrated for 48 hours after exercise will dilute urine and allow the kidneys to flush the myoglobin away.

    • 5

      Maintain proper electrolyte balance with Gatorade, V-8 or another sports drink that contains sodium and glucose. This is particularly important during hot weather, or during prolonged exercise even in cool weather, because electrolytes are lost through perspiration. Drinking lots of water does not replace electrolytes. During strenuous exercise, drinking large amounts of water without replacing electrolytes can cause serious health effects.

    • 6

      Minimize the possibility of traumatic injuries during your exercise or sports activities as much as possible, because trauma can cause rhabdomyolysis.