Patients often seek physiotherapy services to help recover from bone fractures, spinal issues, and sports injuries. Along with orthopaedic cases, physiotherapists provide treatment for a variety of neurological and cardiopulmonary conditions.
1. Neurological Disorders
Neurological disorders affect the nervous system, brain, and spine and can dramatically change a patient’s lifestyle. Disorders such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, strokes, and dementia continue to attack the body even with medical care. However, therapy may help lower the risk or progression of these conditions.
Treatment programs for neurological disorders include exercises designed to improve coordination and balance and prevent muscle tissue from breaking down. Passive limb exercises are used for patients who are unable to move their arms or legs. The goal is to continue working the nervous system and prevent further complications.
2. Cardiopulmonary Conditions
Patients may also seek treatment for conditions that affect the heart or lungs. People suffering from asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema and patients recovering from a heart attack or heart or lung injuries benefit from specific exercises.
Deep breathing exercises are often used to help improve lung capacity. Breathing and circulation exercises are used to prevent chest infections and additional respiratory issues. As with any treatment, the therapist creates a custom exercise plan to address the specific needs of each patient.
3. Arthritis and Joint Inflammation
Arthritis caused by wear and tear or inflammation may cause pain and limit mobility. Both osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis are progressive diseases that slowly become more severe without medical intervention. Physiotherapists help arthritis patients manage the pain and develop a plan that helps slow the progression.
A tailored exercise program for arthritis and joint inflammation includes exercises that target specific joints. Specialists may also recommend the use of walkers or walking aids to limit the pressure on certain joints. Acupuncture and thermotherapy are also commonly recommended by therapists.
4. Dizziness and Vertigo Issues
Dizziness and vertigo are quite common symptoms that put people at increased risk of falling. Falling is especially dangerous for the elderly and those with neurological disorders. Dizziness and vertigo are symptoms and not diseases. However, certain exercises and physiotherapy treatments can help limit the severity of these symptoms.
5. Headaches Caused by Spine Issues
Nearly one out of five headaches are the result of cervical spine issues. These headaches often begin in the neck and then spread towards one side of the front of the head.
Repetitive neck strain and bad posture are the most likely causes. Therapists may employ rehabilitation exercises and manual therapy to help relieve stress on the neck and spine. If you need any more information, Dr Keogh may be able to provide you with further insights and resources.
6. Therapy for Concussions
Concussions do not often lead to permanent health complications if proper medical assistance is sought. Patients typically require rest and recovery to avoid unnecessary strain. However, patients may still develop symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and balance issues. Custom therapy can help address these symptoms and provide relief while recovering from the concussion.
These are just a few examples of the health conditions that physiotherapists can help treat. Besides the issues discussed, therapy is also available for dealing with most types of pain, including chronic pain caused by injuries and pain related to other medical conditions.
