Neurological Conditions
Neurological conditions are movement and functional disorders caused by impairments affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. Patients with neurological conditions struggle with a loss of range of motion or function, muscle weakness, as well as decreased balance and stamina, which may severely affect their daily routines.
Neurological Physiotherapy
Neurological physiotherapy stimulates the nervous system through various activities and exercises to improve balance and coordination, increase strength, stamina and endurance, as well as decrease tension in the affected muscles. In turn, it also helps them have a better outlook and more confidence as it improves their overall quality of life, optimising function and gaining more independence.
1) Stroke
“Brain Attack”
A stroke occurs either when an artery (a blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood) within the brain is blocked by a blood clot (Ischemic Stroke) or bursts (Haemorrhagic Stroke). This can result in loss of brain function that can cause physical limitations, coordination, and movement disorders, as well as cognitive or behavioural challenges.
The symptoms of a stroke depend on its severity and the affected region of the brain, and thus it is unique for each individual.
2) Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative condition caused by insufficient quantities of dopamine (a chemical in the brain) that enables quick and well-coordinated movement. Thus, when dopamine levels fall, movements become slow and awkward.
Parkinson’s disease has both motor and non-motor symptoms that cannot be cured, but can be treated
3) Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)
ABI is any type of brain injury that happens after birth. The brain can be injured due to traumatic brain injury (TBI), stroke, tumor, poisoning, infection and disease, near drowning or other anoxic (greatly deficient in oxygen) episodes, or alcohol and drug abuse.
ABI could result in medical difficulties – epilepsy, altered sensory abilities – impaired vision, touch and smell, impaired physical abilities – weakness, tremor and spasticity (abnormal increase in muscle tone), impaired ability to think and learn – forgetfulness and poor attention, altered behavior and personality – short-temperedness, lethargy and depression, as well as impaired ability to communicate – slow or slurred speech and difficulty following a conversation.