Workout: Myositis Ossificans

How to adapt physical exercise to this rare condition that affects the muscles

Myositis ossificans is a rare condition in which abnormal bone tissue grows within the muscle, usually after trauma. Although the name may be frightening, with proper medical care and an appropriate training plan, it is possible to maintain mobility, reduce pain, and improve muscle function.

🔍 What is Myositis Ossificans?

Myositis Ossificans (MO) is characterized by the formation of heterotopic (outside the usual location) bone in muscle tissue, usually after an injury, severe contusion, or surgery.

There are two main types:

• Traumatic Ossifying Myositis – the most common, appears after direct trauma (e.g., blows in sports).
• Myositis Ossificans Progressiva (or Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva - FOP) – extremely rare and genetic, causes progressive ossification of muscles, tendons and ligaments.

⚠️ Main symptoms

• Persistent muscle pain
• Localized swelling
• Decreased range of motion
• Hard palpable mass (ossification visible on radiographs)
• Functional difficulty in the affected area (usually arm or thigh)

Diagnosis is made through medical imaging (x-rays, CT scans, MRI) and clinical evaluation.

🎯 Benefits of adapted physical exercise

While rest is essential in the early stages of OM, controlled and supervised exercise is important for:

• Prevent muscle atrophy
• Maintain mobility of the nearby joint
• Reduce stiffness
• Improve overall functionality
• Prevent muscle imbalances

Note: Exercise does not remove formed bone, but it helps improve function and reduce secondary complications.

🏡 Home training: recommendations

📆 Initial phase (post-trauma or post-diagnosis)

• Relative rest
• Avoid strength exercises or intense stretching
• Apply ice and keep the limb elevated (when indicated)
• Consult your doctor before starting any training.

🧘♀️ Stabilization phase

• Gentle, passive stretches (avoid pain)
• Active joint mobilization without load
• Low-intensity (non-impact) exercises

Examples:

• Shoulder/elbow mobilization (if MO in the arm)
• Gentle knee flexions and extensions (if MO in the thigh)
• Light Pilates or adapted yoga routines

🏋️♂️ Maintenance phase

• Bodyweight exercises with light resistance bands
• Strengthening of unaffected muscle groups
• Light functional training, always without causing pain

Useful exercises:

• Supine leg raises
• Arm raise without load
• March in place
• Exercise bike (with precaution and medical authorization)

❗ Important precautions

• Avoid intense massages, heat or deep manipulations in the affected area — these can worsen calcification.
• Avoid high-impact activities or direct contact.
• Watch for signs of persistent pain or increased muscle volume — these may indicate progression.
• Respect your body's limits — never force your range of motion.

📚 Evidence and scientific support

According to the British Journal of Sports Medicine , rehabilitation for myositis ossificans should follow similar principles to those for muscle injuries, with progressive adaptation and avoidance of excessive mechanical stress in the acute phases. Multidisciplinary support (physician, physiotherapist, and trainer) is essential for successful outcomes.

🔗 Related articles:

• Training with muscle injuries
• Physical exercise and rehabilitation
• Stretching at home: safety and effectiveness

✅ Conclusion

Myositis ossificans requires a well-thought-out training plan, with gradual progression and special care during the active inflammation phase. Functional, safe, and supervised training can improve quality of life , maintain strength, and prevent loss of mobility.

The key is to adapt the exercise to your body — not the other way around.