What is Neurological Physical Therapy?
Neurological physical therapy focuses on evaluating and treating those with movement disorders due to disease or injury of the nervous system. These structures could include the brain, the spinal cord or the nerves, which deliver messages to the muscles. People who have suffered a concussion, brain injury, stroke, or spinal cord injury may benefit from evaluation by a neurological physical therapist. Other diseases and disorders include multiple sclerosis, vestibular injury or disease, and those suffering after effects of viruses such as Lyme Disease and Guillain-Barre.
Some individuals who could also benefit from assessment are individuals with a history of falls, dizziness or that generally feel off balance. This can happen as we age but should not be considered a normal part of aging. There are many other balance challenges which physical therapy can address, including those stemming from sensory loss from peripheral neuropathy and foot drop (can be caused by diabetes, chemotherapy and others). These physical therapists specialize in diagnosing and treating the cause, or causes, of the issue which can drastically improve quality of life. Your therapist will work with you to determine your personal goals, complete specialized assessments and identify the most effective plan and exercises to help you to live your best life.
These therapists also work closely with orthotists and other medical providers to recommend braces or devices as needed which can help improve someone’s walking quality and decrease risk for falls.
A physical therapist can help improve or restore mobility needed to move forward with your life. Those who have suffered injury or disease affecting the brain or spinal cord will benefit from assessment by a physical therapist. For more information on what this type of PT can do for you, please visit http://neuropt.org/.
Additional Neurological Physical Therapy Resources:
- Choosing PT to assess dizziness or balance issues
- For concussion management
- Vestibular (or inner ear) disorders
- Rehabilitation after a stroke
Our team is ready to hear your story, listen to your concerns and start helping you meet your goals. Schedule your evaluation today!
