Treatment and trials
Other options: what the evidence says
Approaches people with CMT try besides medicines and supplements, and how much evidence each has.
At a glanceExercise has the strongest evidence of these options, from small trials in people with CMT [56]. The others rest on guidance or on trials in other conditions. None of these options, exercise included, have been studied in CMT2C itself.
Moderate resistance, aerobic and balance exercise
Best evidence: small trials in CMT
In CMT. Small trials found benefits, and the exercise appears safe [56].
Elsewhere. In peripheral neuropathy, a Cochrane review found strength gains, although the effect on everyday function is unclear [57].
In CMT2C. No studies yet.
Stretching, water exercise, yoga and Pilates
Guidance from CMT foundations
In CMT. The Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association (CMTA) suggests these, tailored to the individual and guided by a physical therapist who knows neuromuscular disease [65]. No trials of them in CMT were found.
In CMT2C. No studies yet.
Healthy diet, weight control and limiting alcohol
Guidance only
In CMT. Patient guidance recommends these [79], and GeneReviews, a medical reference on TRPV4 disease, advises avoiding obesity [6]. There are no trials in CMT.
In CMT2C. No studies yet.
Acupuncture, massage and electrical muscle stimulation
Untested in CMT
In CMT. I found no controlled trials.
In CMT2C. No studies yet.
Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR)
Untested in CMT
Elsewhere. In a review of 21 trials in chronic pain, MBSR and cognitive behavioral therapy both improved physical function and reduced pain intensity and depression compared with control groups such as usual care or a waiting list [269].
In CMT2C. No studies yet. Tell the teacher about weakness or balance problems so any gentle yoga in the course can be done seated or with support.
Dry needling
Untested in CMT
Elsewhere. A review of 42 trials found it eased musculoskeletal pain more than no treatment or sham needling, but the evidence was mostly low quality [277].
In CMT2C. No studies yet. It may suit tight, overworked muscles rather than nerve pain. Tell the practitioner about reduced feeling and any breathing-muscle weakness.
Whatever you try, the same approach as for supplements helps: change one thing at a time, and agree with your care team on what you hope will change and when you will check. See the four steps on the supplements page.