Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) Health Services advises the public of an increase of cases of rhabdomyolysis and encourages individuals to follow safe exercise practices, including not overexercising, to help prevent this condition. Since October 1, 2025, there have been approximately 60 cases related to intense exercise seen in the Eastern-Urban Zone.

What is rhabdomyolysis?

Rhabdomyolysis, often referred to as rhabdo, occurswhen muscle tissue gets severely damaged and substances from inside the muscle cells leak out into the blood. This can lead to serious problems in the body, including kidney damage and an imbalance of the electrolytes in the body.

Signs and symptoms

The main symptom is severe muscle pain; muscles (most often in the legs and buttocks) can also swell and become weak. Another main sign is urine that looks like tea.

Follow safe guidelines for exercise to help prevent rhabdomyolysis (rhabdo):

• Physical activity is essential for your health and well-being, but intense exercise in a short time frame should be approached with caution.
• Ensure reasonable recovery time between intense exercise sessions. Incorporate regular rest days. For more intense exercise, periods of 48 to 72 hours may be required following maximum intensity of effort.
• Seek professional advice from a health-care professional or a qualified fitness specialist around intense exercise and rest periods, especially if you are uncertain.   
• Balance your exercise routine to avoid over working one area or muscle group.  
• Stay well hydrated before and after exercise. During intense exercise, the body will not absorb a lot of liquid, but drinking fluids during exercise helps to reduce the body’s internal temperature.
• If you are older, new to exercise, in a physically demanding profession, or on certain medications like anti-cholesterol medications, anti-depressants, or antipsychotics, check with your family doctor before commencing any high intensity exercise programs.
• General physical activity recommendations can be accessed at the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines and Newfoundland and Labrador’s Health Information websites.

What to do if you think you have rhabdo

Because rhabdo is potentially very serious, you should proceed to your nearest emergency department or urgent care centre if you are experiencing signs or symptoms of the condition.

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