Multiple myeloma patients are living longer than ever before. Therefore, mobility, fall-risk assessment, and planned activity are important for these patients’ long-term care plans. Given the risks of injury and/or skeletal issues, multiple myeloma patients should have regular assessments evaluating their symptoms, enhancing their day-to-day functions, and intervening with proper assistance for the best overall health possible.

In this section, learn more about physical activity guidelines for multiple myeloma patients.

Should I Avoid Physical Activity If I Have Multiple Myeloma?

Your attending myeloma clinician may recommend a consult with a physical or occupational therapist to assess your physical activity level and needs for assistance.

Common questions to discuss with your healthcare providers when considering your physical activity level include:

• How do you move in and out bed?
• How long can you tolerate exercise, e.g., can you comfortably ride a stationary bike for 10 minutes?
• Are you experiencing any pain in certain parts of your body?

For healthcare providers, an “exercise prescription” should consist of the four components of the FITT Principle:

Frequency: The number of sessions per week

Intensity: How hard the person is exercising

Time: The duration of the exercise session

Type: The activity mode

Before starting any exercise program, healthcare providers should assess a patient’s overall fitness and safety level to engaging in such exercise. Patients should also be educated about when to modify or abstain from their exercise regimens. As always, discuss your planned physical activities with your healthcare provider.

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