Can physiotherapy make a difference in the life of someone with a neurological condition?

Our body is an amazing network of muscles, joints, organs and other bits, all coordinated by the brain and nervous system. The brain is a complex network of electrical connections, similar to a computer. I don’t know about you, but it blows my mind to look at a computer motherboard and think about how those few wires can create the magic we see on the screen. Our brains take that magic to a whole new level of complexity with conscious thought, emotions, movement and sensation.

Unfortunately, things can go wrong with the nervous system, and when that happens, the effects are felt throughout the body. Sadly, there are several conditions of the nervous system that medicine can slow the progression of but not yet cure. Physiotherapy is an important tool in managing these conditions including Multiple Sclerosis, Motor Neurone Disease, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

We can’t cure these conditions, but we have many strategies to help manage symptoms and maintain quality of life.

Let’s look at a few of these strategies.

Exercise

Exercise promotes healing, learning, increases our fitness and capacity for daily life. Excitingly, it also slows the decline of most neurological conditions, especially if introduced early in the condition. Physiotherapists can help individuals find the right type and amount of exercise to be effective and safe.

Education

Everyone’s journey with a neurological condition is unique, but there are common patterns and challenges within each condition. Physiotherapists can share education and advice to ease some of the unknown and help individuals navigate their condition. There are often little tips and tricks that make a big difference.

Neuro rehabilitation

When specific functions are lost in the gradual neural decline, physiotherapists can sometimes help the brain relearn the function by creating new neural pathways. Physiotherapists think outside the box and find creative ways to help your body learn again.

Compensation strategies

Physiotherapy first aims to maintain and even rebuild normal function. But when function gradually declines, there are ways to compensate and work around the problem. It might be possible to teach other muscles to take over the job or find different movement strategies. There is also a great variety of assistive devices to help individuals maintain their quality of life. Occupational Therapists (OT) are experts with assistive devices but physiotherapists can get you started and help set up mobility aids.

Living with degenerative neurological conditions takes courage and teamwork. Physiotherapists can be a useful member of that team. We are creative, caring and determined people who think outside the box, share knowledge and experience from those who have walked the journey before you, and help you fight the decline for as long as possible.

To make an appointment with one of our experienced physiotherapists, call any of our clinics or book online via our website www.goodcountryphysio.com.au.