PHYSIOTHERAPY

Physiotherapists work with people to assess physical difficulties and help improve movement and other functions of the body.

They can help you find exercises that meet your specific needs and abilities. Therapy may concentrate on a particular area of the body, or help you manage a specific symptom of your condition. 

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Physiotherapy is available at most of our member centres and has a vital role to play in helping people to cope with the daily challenge of living with a neurological condition, including:

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• Learning to control and co-ordinate movement patterns

• Reducing spasticity and encouraging more normal movements

• Regaining functional abilities

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Physiotherapy is often recommended when there is a specific problem or ongoing symptoms that affect day-to-day activities, mobility and independence. It can help whatever your level of disability, but can be particularly valuable when physical symptoms progress or you are recovering from a relapse. 

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If your condition is affecting the sports or activities you are able to do, a physiotherapist might suggest new ways to stay fit, or ways to adapt your preferred exercises to suit your situation. They can also suggest particular exercises to treat and manage specific problems such as difficulties with mobility, balance, posture and fatigue. Bladder problems, pain, muscle spasms and stiffness can also be targeted by physiotherapy.

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Using the basis of careful and detailed assessments, the physiotherapist draws up a treatment regime specific to each person. The regime is adjusted appropriately following reassessment when you have made progress, or when your symptoms change. 

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Physiotherapy might involve the physiotherapist working hands-on with you - for example they may hold and move your limbs for passive stretching and range-of-motion. They may also work with you using equipment such as a standing frame, motor assisted pedals, tilt table, treadmill, parallel bars, arm pulleys, multi-gym equipment, wobble boards and physio balls.