What is Neuro Physiotherapy?
How does it differ from Orthopedic.
Neurological physiotherapy is a specialized field that addresses movement impairments resulting from brain injuries. Our therapists understand the intricate connections between the brain, nerves, and muscles. Unlike the treatment of orthopedic injuries, which primarily involve the musculoskeletal system, the treatment of neurological injury needs to incorporate the sensory system. All our therapists have extensive past and ongoing neurological training, equipping them to navigate the complex sensory pathways that affect motor control. A skilled therapist in this discipline carefully considers how messages between the brain and muscles are altered post-injury. By treating the sensory system, when asking for motor control, these therapists aim to improve movement and function, leading to the betterment of the client's goals. As such, neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections— is the result!
Conditions We Treat
Stroke: Stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced, leading to brain cell damage. Neuro physiotherapy for stroke focuses on restoring mobility, balance, and coordination through hands-on therapy targeting affected muscles, the neural pathways and the sensory system. Treatment may also include gait training, strength exercises, and functional activities to improve independence in daily tasks. But our focus is always on, hands-on therapy vs only exercise perscription.
Brain Injury: Brain injury refers to damage to the brain caused by trauma, such as a blow to the head. Neuro physiotherapy for brain injury aims to address impairments in movement, balance, and cognitive function. Treatment may involve a combination of exercises to improve strength, coordination, and flexibility, as well as techniques to enhance cognitive skills through function. Hands on therapy is always performed.
Complete and Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries: Complete spinal cord injuries result in the total loss of sensation and motor function below the level of injury, while incomplete injuries involve partial preservation of these functions. Neuro physiotherapy for both types of spinal cord injuries focuses on maximizing independence and quality of life. Treatment may include strengthening exercises, mobility training, and functional electrical stimulation to activate paralyzed muscles.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, leading to inflammation, demyelination, and neuronal damage. Neuro physiotherapy for MS aims to manage symptoms such as muscle weakness, spasticity, and balance problems. Treatment may involve stretching exercises, balance training, and gait retraining to improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome: Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by rapid-onset muscle weakness and paralysis. Neuro physiotherapy for Guillain-Barré syndrome focuses on restoring muscle strength, coordination, and mobility. Treatment may include gentle exercises, stretching, and respiratory exercises to prevent complications such as respiratory failure and promote recovery.
Vestibular Balance Disorders: Vestibular balance disorders result from dysfunction in the vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial orientation. Neuro physiotherapy for vestibular balance disorders aims to alleviate symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance. Treatment may include vestibular rehabilitation exercises, gaze stabilization techniques, and balance training to improve postural control and reduce symptoms.
Falls and Poor Balance: Through a special analysis of your balance components, we will develop a program tailored to address your specific needs. There are many different ways that our systems coordinate balance, and depending on your injuries or predispositions, it varies for everyone. It is important to know that one balance program does not fit all, which is why we design different programs for each patient.
