McArdle syndrome, also known as glycogen storage disease type V (GSD V) is a rare genetic autosomal recessive disease of the muscle tissue or myopathy caused by the body’s inability to produce phosphorylase; “an enzyme that catalyzes the formation of glucose-1-phosphate from glycogen.” (Taber’s Cyclopedic medical Dictionary). Without it, sugar or glycogen stored in the muscles cannot be used to produce energy resulting in fatigue, severe muscle pain and cramping after momentary exercise. “Typically, patients with GSD V disease have exercise intolerance with premature muscle fatigue, exercise-induced muscle pain in working muscles (contractures), and recurrent myoglobinuria.” (Vorgerd, M., & Zange, J., 2007)
McArdle syndrome usually goes…