Research Corner - Q&A Cushings Syndrome by Craig Burris | Date Released : 28 Aug 2003 0 comments Print Close Question: Are there any guidelines for training a client with Cushings syndrome/disease? Answer: Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a condition that results from an excess of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. The most common cause of Cushing's syndrome is Cushing's disease caused by excessive production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by the pituitary gland, often caused by a tumor. ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. CS can also be caused by the overuse of corticosteroids. This can lead to brittle bones and the rapid release of adrenalin (if there is a tumor). I spoke with a doctor to discuss your answer. He said you need to be extremely careful with any training that involves high impact, aerobics, jumping, running, etc. We discussed some good types of exercise and stretching, which includes the following: Use corrective stretches and exercises to help maintain optimal posture. Try to minimize axial loading of the spine directly (squats holding a med ball rather than back squats). Ensure proper core recruitment (TVA, multifidus activation/lower ab strength, etc.). Get cardio from low impact sources (elliptical trainer, recumbent bike, step mill). Eliminate as much stress as possible as well as all caffeine and sugar. These all increase cortisol production And of course, ALWAYS CONSULT A PHYSICIAN BEFORE ANY EXERCISE PROGRAM! Best of Luck! Back to top About the author: Craig Burris Craig is currently the owner of Peak Physique personal training. Peak Physique provides training in home and at select health clubs in the Twin Cities. Prior to this, Craig was the Director of Trainer education at BODYFIT, a personal training center in St. Paul, as well as providing treatment to clients at twin cities chiropractic clinics. Craig conducts educational seminars for trainers, physical therapists and chiropractors and writes articles for various web sites and publications. His philosophy is, “Achieve optimal health through exercise and nutrition.” Craig specializes in rehabilitation, sport specific training and nutrition. Full Author Details Related content Content from Craig Burris How to Control Fat Accumulation: Part 2 Andrew Busch | Articles How to Control Fat Accumulation: Part 1 Andrew Busch | Articles Williams Syndrome Kristy Hoornick | Articles Noni Juice and Cancer Joe Cannon | Articles Truth in Nutrition - Part 1 Craig Burris | Articles Neuropathy on the Foot Craig Burris | Articles Crohn’s Disease Pain with SMR Craig Burris | Articles Weight Loss Difficulties Craig Burris | Articles Female Weight Gain with Workouts Craig Burris | Articles Cushings Syndrome Craig Burris | Articles Knee Surgery Rehab – Lateral Release Craig Burris | Articles Amino Acid Supplement – L-arganine Craig Burris | Articles Hernia Exercise Recommendations Craig Burris | Articles Vestibular Vertigo Craig Burris | Articles Hamstring Stretch with LBP Craig Burris | Articles Pooch Belly Craig Burris | Articles Spinal Stenosis Craig Burris | Articles Stretching Before Exercise Craig Burris | Articles Muscle Adhesions Craig Burris | Articles Glycemic Index Assessments Craig Burris | Articles Truth in Nutrition - Part 2 Craig Burris | Articles Disc Herniation and Steroids Craig Burris | Articles Spot Reduction for Arms Craig Burris | Articles Tight Trapezius Craig Burris | Articles Facio-Scapular-Humeral Muscular Dystrophy Craig Burris | Articles Hip Pain from Old Ankle Injury Craig Burris | Articles Truth in Nutrition - Part 1 Craig Burris | Articles Please login to leave a comment Comments (0) Back to top