PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS
People with neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and traumatic brain injury often have difficulties with
- muscle weakness
- reduced balance and coordination
- muscle tightness
- altered sensation
- pain
- altered walking
- performing everyday tasks
- loss of fitness
Neurological physiotherapists help people with neurological problems to regain function and improve the way they move, with the ultimate aim to maximise wellness and independence.
Physiotherapy for people with neurological conditions applies the principle of neuroplasticity, harnessing the brain’s ability to rewire itself according to what it experiences. A neurological physiotherapist will have the skills to assist you to select an appropriate functional challenge and provide feedback and assistance to practice and improve performance.
Together with functional practice, it is important to address any muscle weakness and/or tightness to make movement easier and stronger. Balance retraining and fitness training are also important components to include in neurological physiotherapy as they are integral to optimal function for everyday life. Management of pain, fatigue and other common neurological or musculoskeletal symptoms are also part of neurological physiotherapy.
Neurological physiotherapy can be delivered 1:1 or in a small group or within an exercise class depending on the aim of treatment.