What is Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy?

CIDP is a type of demyelinating disease that is acquired and involves peripheral nerves. In most instances, it is considered to be the counterpart to the illness known as Guillain-Barre syndrome. In fact, about 16% of all individual that have this condition also present with GBS. In less than two months’ time, those with this condition usually develop symmetrical-based weakness, issues with balance, reflexes that diminish over time, sensory-based changes, and impaired sensations.

When a person has CIDP on a long-term basis, there will be abnormalities in their gait, in social-based and psychological-based functioning. The prognosis when one is diagnosed with this condition is dependent upon the age when diagnosed, the course of treatment, the response to the treatment received, and the findings that are electro physiological in nature.

What is the Pathophysiology of CIDP?

CIDP is a disease that is located in the peripheral nervous system. On the outside of the nerves of the peripheral nervous system is a fatty layer of myelin that is white in color and is composed of glial cells. These are also referred to as “Schwann Cells”. The coating that is created by these cells help the axons then to transmit neural impulses more quickly. These are transported to receptor sites – which include the muscles and the organs within the body.

First, the myelin that is located around the nerves is completely destroyed – which causes changes and starts the process of denervation within the supplied muscles. The nerves that are affected start to demonstrate a segmental-based infiltration with inflammatory cells, called “lymphocytes”. Demyelination also starts to infiltrate on a segmental basis. Soon, the Schwann cells proliferate and there is a deposition of collagen. This causes the thickening of the nerve and results in an appearance that is similar to that of an onion bulb.

What Causes Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy?

CIDP is an autoimmune disorder of the body. It involved humoral immune-based mechanisms and the T-cells of the body and targets the myelin of the peripheral nervous system. It is considered to be idiopathic; however, it also has variants that may be associated with neoplastic process, infections associated with HIV, as well as a history of type 2 diabetes.

How Many People Have CIDP?

The prevalence of this condition has been reported as few as 0.8 per 100,000 up to 8.9 per 100,000. The risk for suffering from this condition varies and advances with age. The peak age in which this is commonly experienced is as young as 40 years old to as old as 60 years old. It seems to affect males more than females. It is believed that many more people experience this condition than is known, but it is believed that the condition is not reported as most other medical conditions. It is believed that there are inconsistencies with the diagnosing criteria.

What are the Most Common Symptoms of Clinical Presentation with CIDP?

When patients present with CIDP, there are several symptoms that may be experienced. The following outlines the most common:

1. Problems with Walking
2. Stair Climbing Difficulties
3. Balance Dexterity
4. Manual Dexterity
5. Sensory Loss
6. Symmetric Weakness in the Limbs
7. Numbing Sensations
8. Buzzing Sensations in the Body
9. Neuropathic Pain
10. Sensory Complications

What are the Major Features of CIDP?

1. Symptoms Progress Over Two Months
2. Motor Symptoms Becoming Predominant
3. A Reduction in Reflexes of the Deep Tendons
4. Evidence of Issue in Nerve Conduction Tests
5. Symmetric-Based Involvement of the Legs and the Arms
6. Involvement of Both Distal and Proximal Muscles
7. The Presence of Cerebrospinal Fluid Protein Elevation

What are the Main Differential Diagnoses of CIDP?

There are several different types of differential diagnoses associated with CIDP. The following outlines the main or most common ones:

• Multiple Sclerosis
• Guillain-Barre Syndrome
• Diabetic Polyneuropathy
• Neuropathy
• Multifocal Motor Neuropathy
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
• Fibromyalgia
• Nutritional Deficiencies
• Systemic Inflammatory Diseases
• Toxins
• Critical Illnesses

How is Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of CIDP is an extensive process that includes both an inpatient and an outpatient team of professionals. Individuals that are required to make the diagnosis includes a neuromuscular professional, a neurologist, pain management specialist, psychiatrist, a physical therapist, intensivist, and others. It could take months to years for a patient to receive an official diagnosis as so many other conditions and diseases must be ruled out.

What Role Does a Physical Therapist Play in the Treatment of CIDP?

A physical therapist’s role to the treatment of an individual that has CIDP is specialized to each patient that has the condition. Those that specialize in physiotherapy prescribe aids for the gait that help with the person’s balance and their movements. It is very common for patients with this condition to have issues with balance, walking, gait, and exercising. As a result of this, the exercise regimens used by patients must be tailored on an individual basis. This way, overexertion does not happen. Physical therapy helps in the following ways:

1. The special exercises ordered by the physical therapist are designed to help with balance and mobility. They help with coordination, stability, improving the gait, and help in reducing the risks of falls.
2. Physical therapy helps a patient build up their muscle strength and overall endurance. Because of this, atrophy is prevented and cardiovascular fitness is improved up to a total of 30%.
3. Physical therapy helps in both pain management and fatigue management. Examples of the activities that help in these areas include stretching exercises, energy conservation activities, and others.
4. Physical therapy helps a patient with CIDP become functionally independent. This may include providing a patient with a brace, a walking cane, or a walker in order to help make the tasks that they complete on a daily basis easier.
5. Physical therapy helps a patient to feel better, overall – both physically and psychologically.

What Should a CIDP Patient Consider When Going Through Physical Therapy?

If you have CIDP, there are many considerations that should be made. These include – but are not limited to – the following:

1. First, you should always avoid overexerting yourself. Exercise has the potential to wear you out. This could negatively impact your recovery. If you feel as if you are pushing it, slow down.
2. It is best to start treatment early in your diagnosis. In doing so, you will receive the biggest benefits. The good thing about physical therapy is, even if you delay treatment, you will still benefit from it in one way or another.
3. Physical therapy is a treatment that may be customized to treat you and the symptoms that trouble you the most. It can be tailored for you as an individual. The exercises may consist of active activities, gravity-reduced, and resistive.

How is Outcome Measured in Those With CIDP?

There are many different ways that outcome is measured in those that have CIDP. The following outlines the most common methods:

1. The “TUG” test (Timed up and go Test) – This activity measures that time that it takes to stand up from a sitting position in a chair, walk a short distance, and turn around, go back to the seat and sit down.
2. The 10 Meter Walk Test – This test measures the walking speed of the patient.
3. Patients are also encouraged to participate in grip tests in order to determine their grip strength.
4. The “FSS” test (Fatigue Severity Scale) – This test is used to measure the amount of fatigue that a patient has.
5. The “SF-36” test – This test measures the quality of life that the patient experiences. This includes their social and physical functioning, if they experience pain or not and how much. Their general health and vitality are also evaluated.

Conclusion

If you suffer from Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy, it is imperative that you focus on treatment plans that will help you experience relief from the symptoms in which you suffer. The symptoms of the condition are progressive. It results in weakness in the upper and the lower limbs, fatigue, and a poor quality of life. Physical therapy is – by far – one of the most productive treatments for CIDP. If you have this condition and are tired of living a subpar life, contact us here at Back to Motion Physical Therapy today to learn about all of the treatment options that we have that can help you experience a boost to your quality of life. You may reach us by calling the following phone number today or by visiting our website: 303-832-5577

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What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a type of dizziness that results in the sufferer feeling a sense of spinning. It makes you feel as if you or the surroundings around you are moving when – in fact – they are not. This condition often stems from inner ear issues or issues with the brain, itself. Patients that experience vertigo often state that they feel as if they are falling or are whirling around. These sensations lead to loss of balance, vomiting, nausea, and more serious balance issues – such as the onset of Benign Positional Vertigo (BPPV), Meniere’s disease, migraines, and infections.

What are the Most Common Symptoms of Vertigo?

While we have touched upon the main symptoms associated with vertigo, the list below is a comprehensive list of the most common symptoms experienced with vertigo:

• Sensation of Motion and/or Spinning
• Unsteadiness
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Difficulty Focusing the Eyes
• Abnormal Eye Movements
• Double Vision
• Ringing in the ears/Tinnitus
• Ears Feeling Full
• Hearing Loss
• Headaches
• Sweating

Symptoms That Could Indicate an Emergency

If you have vertigo and you experience certain symptoms, you should seek emergency medical care immediately. The following outlines these symptoms:

• Sudden Headache That is Severe
• Sudden Chest Pain
• Double Vision
• Loss of Vision
• Fainting
• Seizures
• Trouble Breathing
• Weakness, Numbness, or Tingling in Either an Arm or a Leg
• Problems Talking
• Slurred Speech
• Stumbling
• Not Moving Right or Loss of Movement
• Trouble Walking
• Confusion

What are the Most Common Causes of Vertigo?

There are many common causes behind the development of vertigo. In order for a physical therapist to help a person suffering from vertigo, they must determine what is causing the issue. The following outlines a few potential causes:

1. BPPV – For all intents and purposes, BPPV is typically a case of an inner ear infection. It happens when tiny calcium particles that are called “canaliths” start to clump up in the ear canals. The inner ear is directly responsible for sending gravitational messages up to the brain that relates to the movements of the body. This is how we remain balanced. If the inner canals of the ear are blocked, the right messages can’t get to the brain. It is then that we experience the feeling of being unbalanced.
2. Meniere’s Disease – This is a disorder that impacts the inner ear. It is caused from fluid buildup. In turn, this fluid causes pressures to fluctuate within the ear. The fluid and the pressure block the messages from entering the brain. This causes an imbalance. In addition to weird sensations, this condition can also cause ringing in the ears, which is medically referred to as “Tinnitus”. In extreme cases, this could result in the development of hearing loss.
3. Vestibular Neuritis – This is also more commonly termed “labyrinthitis”. This is also an ear infection, but it is caused by a virus, not bacteria or fungus. The inner ear and all of the nerves that surround it become inflamed and swell up. As a result, there are issues in the proper messages reaching the brain.
4. Less Common Causes – While the above-listed causes are the most common, there are fewer common causes behind vertigo. These include an injury that occurs to the head and/or neck, migraines, brain tumor, stroke, medications.

What is the Prognosis of Vertigo?

In many cases, vertigo is an issue that is capable of going away on its own. Then again, there are cases that are capable of progressing and worsening as time progresses. If you want to experience the best prognosis possible, you should consult with a physical therapist as quickly as possible.

How Does Physical Therapy Help Those with Vertigo?

According to medical documentation, physical therapy is the standard treatment for people that have vertigo. We here at Back to Motion Physical Therapy are trained to aid in alleviating vertigo symptoms that our patients may be experiencing. If you make an appointment with our team, the next step would be meeting with one of our licensed, insured, and thoroughly trained physical therapist to determine the details of your condition. Any information that will be obtained during the interview will help the professional to create a customized treatment plan for your condition.

Then, the physical therapist will perform an assortment of tests to determine the underlying cause of the vertigo that you are experiencing. Once a culprit has been identified, the therapist will figure out how to resolve the vertigo that you are experiencing. The treatment that you are provided with may include movements of the head and/or the neck. If the issue continues after the movements of the head and/or the neck, a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of vertigo.

What are the Goals of Physical Therapy?

When you meet with a physical therapist for treatment for vertigo, the following goals are put into place:

1. Improving Visual Disturbances That Occur with Head Movements
2. Improving Balance – Both Dynamic and Static
3. Decreasing the Risk of Falls
4. Reducing Dizziness
5. Resolving Any Type of Positional-Based Vertigo
6. Increasing the Ability to Engage in Functional and/or Social Activities
7. Improving the Overall Fitness

Exercises in Physical Therapy

Physical therapists will encourage patients with vertigo to engage in certain types of exercises. These are designed to assist those who have dizzy spells and experience instability of the posture. The principles of these exercises are based on adaptation, habituation, and/or substation. It has been established that if the recovery of the gaze returns with these exercises, stability of the posture will return. This is because the vestibular system of the body is capable of adapting to the response to the stimuli.

If you are a patient that experiences dizziness and motion dizziness, the physical therapist will prescribe habituation-based exercises. These types of exercises are prescribed to decrease the patient’s response to direct stimuli that they are exposed to. Other exercises may be ordered to directly address any impairments that negatively impact the patient’s stability. An example would be decreased lower body flexibility and/or strength.

How Often Would a Patient with Vertigo Have to Go to Physical Therapy?

Unfortunately, there is no single time frame for physical therapy for patients that suffer from vertigo. The frequency as well as the overall duration of the treatment will depend heavily on the patient and their associated pathology. The PT will create a program that includes both in-house and at-home exercises that can be performed. During each in-house visit with the physical therapist, the therapist will assess how the patient is responding to treatment and if it is well, it will be moved to full home program exercises.

Contact Us Today

We here at Back to Motion Physical Therapy have been assisting patients with vertigo for many years. Our practice integrated the newest and the most advanced approaches and treatments for those that have vertigo. We believe in restoring each patient to optimal health and making sure that we offer a highly comprehensive approach. Our evaluation is a multi-system one that places an emphasis on mobilization of the joints, a whole-body focus, and a global physical therapy approach.

Services

Back to Motion Physical Therapy offers many unique services to our patients. These include

• Vestibular Therapy
• Dry Needling
• Balance Training
• Smart Fit
• Antigravity Treadmill

It does not matter what is causing your problem, we here at Back to Motion Physical Therapy have the solution. It is important to understand that each person’s issue with vertigo is unique and when meeting with one of our physical therapists, an interview and an evaluation will be conducted so that the best customized treatment plan may be created. If you have special needs due to other health conditions, please inform our team as soon as you are able to.

Products

In addition to having a customized care plan put into place, we offer a couple of different products that you may benefit from utilizing. These include BioFreeze and the Flexi-Freeze cold pack for the contour space of the neck. Studies show that patients that have BPPV and/or other types of vestibular disorders will benefit immensely from physical therapy. You no longer have to get a referral for physical therapy. Simply visit our website or give us a call today to set up a personalized appointment for evaluation so that we may create a care plan:

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What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a type of sensation that the environment you are in is spinning in circles. It is a symptom among numerous health issues, but not considered to be a disease in and of itself. It is possible for vertigo to occur with other types of symptoms in various types of illnesses, diseases, and underlying health conditions.

What Causes Vertigo?

The cause of vertigo may vary from one person to another. In most instances, vertigo may develop as a result of the following medical conditions:

• Migraines
• Consuming certain types of medications. These include but are not limited to antibiotics. Cardiovascular medications, and/or anti-inflammatory medications.
• Heart arrhythmia
• Acoustic Neuroma
• Diabetes
• An injury to the head
• Shingles in or within close proximity to the ear
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Syphilis
• Diseases of the brain
• Low blood pressure
• Prolonged bed rest
• Ear surgery
• Ataxia
• Fluid leaking into the middle ear
• Hyperventilation

What are the Complications That Could be Experienced with Vertigo?

If you have vertigo, there are many complications that may arise. The first and most obvious is the possibility of falling. This could cause fractures and other types of injuries. It can also disrupt your quality of life. You may find that your ability to drive or to work may be hindered. This is why it is important to find and work with a physical therapist that specializes in vertigo programs.

How is Vertigo Diagnosed?

A vertigo diagnosis can only be reached after a comprehensive examination, which will include the following:

1. Medical History – The diagnosing physician will consider the onset of the symptoms and how long those symptoms have been experienced.
2. The physician will determine if there are any associated symptoms such as a headache, nausea, and/or vomiting.
3. The patient will be asked if they have taken any medications and what medical conditions that they have.
4. A neurological examination may be done to make an assessment of the coordination, the balance, and the movements of the eyes.
5. Many individuals that have vertigo will need to undergo a hearing test.
6. The patient may have to have a Dix-Hallpike maneuver test performed that will help to determine if they have benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.
7. A head impulse test may be done to determine the overall functionality of the balance system that is located within the balance system of the ear.
8. Imaging studies that may include either an MRI or CT scan or both may be done to rule out any type of underlying brain disorder or disorder involving the spinal cord.
9. Blood tests may be a part of the diagnostic testing as it will check for certain types of underlying medical conditions that could be causing the vertigo.
10. An electronystagmography (ENG) will be used to measure the movements of the eyes and to provide an assessment of the vestibular functioning.

Based on the evaluation that your provider initiates, they will be able to not only diagnose the vertigo but may even be able to tell you what is causing the issue. From there, a treatment plan customized for you will be created.

What are the Two Main Types of Vertigo?

Generally speaking, there are two main types of vertigo. The following outlines these types and includes basic information about both:

1. Peripheral Vertigo – This is the most common among patients. It occurs as a result of an issue with the vestibular nerve or the inner ear. Both of these have a direct impact on one’s sense of balance. This type of vertigo has several different subtypes. These are as follows:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
• Labyrinthitis
• Meniere’s Disease
• Vestibular Neuritis

2. Central Vertigo – This is a less common type of vertigo among patients. It develops when there is some type of issue that directly impacts the brain. Examples of these issues includes – but are not limited to – stroke, infection, and a traumatic injury. In addition to experiencing the spinning symptom, one may have additional problems such as problems walking and instability.

How Does a Physical Therapist Help in Caring for Patients with Vertigo?

There are many steps that may be made by a medical specialist to assist patients with vertigo. The following outlines some of these measures:

1. Vertigo Medication – Many healthcare providers will help patients by providing certain medications that will stop the symptoms being experienced. This is most often the treatment for vertigo that suddenly develops. The most commonly prescribed medications include meclizine, dimenhydrinate, and/or an antihistamine like cyclizine.
2. Repositioning Maneuvers – If a patient has BPPV, it indicates that the small crystals composed of carbonate – which are also referred to as “canaliths” – have moved from the utricle located in the inner ear to the nearby semicircular canals. When this happens, when the head is repositioned, the vertigo occurs. This type of therapy helps to move the crystals out of the canals and back into the utricle. This involves specific types of movements for the head. The medical professional helping a patient with these movements will teach them how to do them at home so that the treatment may continue.
3. Vertigo Exercises – If a patient has vertigo and enlists the assistance of a physical therapist, they will go through with an interview and the therapist will then create a customized care plan that includes vertigo exercises. This type of therapy is referred to as “vestibular rehabilitation therapy”. The movements performed are intended to improve symptoms like dizziness, balance problems, and vision that is unstable. The exercises that are to be completed will be based on the individual needs of the patient. Examples include stretching, marching in one spot, eye movement control, and even strengthening exercises. In many instances, the patient will be instructed to perform these exercises when they experience a vertigo episode.
4. Surgery – Having surgery is actually considered to be a rare treatment for vertigo; however, it is possible that it will be recommended. This mostly occurs with patients that have an underlying medical issue. This is only recommended when other types of treatment are proven to be ineffective.

How Physical Therapists Help Patients Get Rid of Vertigo

When you work with a physical therapist, there are many techniques that may be used in order to assist in eliminating the symptoms of vertigo. One of the most popular is outlined below:

• When standing up, you will be encouraged to move slowly and turn your head.
• The patient will be instructed to keep your head elevated with – at least two pillows
• When lying down, the patient will be told to make sure the room is dark and it is quiet because this will help in stopping the movement sensation.
• The patient will be taught that if they are standing and they start to feel dizzy, they must sit down.
• If a patient with vertigo has to pick something up from the floor, they should be encouraged to squat down than to completely bend over.
• If the patient must get up during the night, they should be encouraged to turn a light on and not move around in the dark.
• If a patient feels as if they may fall, they should be encouraged and taught how to use a cane, a walker, or a rollator.

Can Vertigo be Completely Cured?

As of this time in history, there is currently no cure for vertigo; however, many individuals have found that once they have it and eliminate it, they never experience the problem again. Then still, there are those who have frequent vertigo episodes. If a patient continues to have reoccurring episodes, they should inform their doctor and/or their physical therapist.

Warning

If a patient suffers from vertigo and has other symptoms – such as chest pain, heart palpitations, severe headache, vision changes, sweats, extreme fatigue, blood in bowel movements or urine and any new skin changes – they should seek medical care immediately. These symptoms could indicate that there is a serious underlying issue.

Contact Us

If you suffer from any type of vertigo, we here at Back to Motion Physical Therapy are capable of assisting you. In fact, we specialize in vestibular therapy for individuals that experience vertigo on a regular basis. In addition to this, we offer dry needling, balance training, the antigravity treadmill and more! If you are interested in our services and/or you suffer from vertigo problems, we enough you to give us a call at the following number. By the way, if you have any other health concerns, be sure to let the specialist know as this will help us create a customized care plan for you: 303-832-5577

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What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

Guillain-Barre Syndrome – which is also known as acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP) – Is an inflammatory-based neurological disorder that occurs when the immune system within the body directly attacks the peripheral nervous system.

The onset of the condition is often rapid and out of nowhere. Anyone who shows the signs of this condition should seek medical attention as quickly as possible. While considered to be a rare issue, it has been estimated that approximately 3,000 people in the United States alone, will be impacted by Guillan-Barre Syndrome/AIDP annually.

What Causes Guillain-Barre Syndrome to Develop?

In most stances, the development of Guillain-Barre Syndrome occurs immediately after an infection or some other type of medical event. There are other potential causes, too. Below, we will outline each of the potential causes of Guillan-Barre Syndrome and provide a brief explanation of each:

1. Infections – In most of the cases of Guillan-Barre Syndrome, it occurs following some type of infection in the body – such as a viral infection, a bacterial infection, or a Campylobacter jejuni infection. Other viruses have also been known to occur prior to the onset of Guillain-Barre Syndrome. These include the fly, the Zika virus, and the Epstein-Barr virus.
2. The Immune System – The immune system of the body is designed so that it may combat infections. Sometimes, though, nerve cells are misidentified as invaders. When this happens, the immune systems attack those nerve cells. This then leads to the onset of Guillan-Barre Syndrome. So far, it is believed that a process referred to as “molecular Mimicry” causes antibodies to be created against the target infection that targets the nerve cells directly in the body.
3. Vaccinations – In some cases, those that develop Guillain-Barre Syndrome do so after receiving some type of vaccination.
4. Trauma – In some cases, a person has developed Guillain-Barre Syndrome immediately following some type of trauma or having surgery performed.

Are There Different Types of Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

To date, three different types of Guillain-Barre Syndrome have been identified. The symptoms experienced depend upon what type of Guillan-Barre Syndrome is experienced. Physical Therapy can help individuals in each type of Guillan-Barre Syndrome. The types and a brief explanation of each are listed below:

1. Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy – This is also known as “ADIP”. This is the most common of all Guillan-Barre Syndrome types within the areas of Europe and the United States. The most common symptom experienced in this type is weakness in the muscles on the lower part of the body. Eventually, this weakness starts moving upwards.
2. Acute Motor Axonal Neuropathy (AMAN) and/or Acute Motor- Sensory Axonal Neuropathy (AMSAN) are types of Guillain-Barre Syndrome that are common in Mexico, Japan, and China and less common in the US.
3. Miller Fisher Syndrome – This is most common in Asia and less common within the United States, the paralysis starts within the eyes and the sufferer may experience an unsteadiness while walking.

What are the Symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

In most cases, when Guillan-Barre Syndrome develops, the sufferer will have tingling sensations and weakness that starts within the feet and the legs. It will then spread upwards into the upper body region and the arms. Many experience the first symptoms in the face. The condition then progresses and the sufferer will experience weakness of the muscles which will then turn into paralysis. The following outlines the symptoms that may be experienced with Guillan-Barre Syndrome:

• The feeling of pins and needles (tingling) in the toes, the wrists, the ankles, or the ankles.
• Not being able to walk in a steady manner and/or the inability to walk up or climb stairs.
• Weakness in the legs that spread up to the upper body.
• Double vision and/or the inability to move the eyes.
• Problems with facial movements. This could cause problems in talking, swallowing, and/or chewing.
• Trouble breathing may be experienced.
• Severe pain throughout the body that may be similar to an ache, sharp, or even resemble cramps. In most instances, pain is worse at night.
• Patients with Guillan-Barre Syndrome are known to have trouble with their bowels and/or their bladder.
• The heart rate is known to go exceedingly fast.

In most cases, patients experience the worst of the symptoms in the first couple of weeks after they initially start experiencing symptoms. It is important to understand that this is a very serious condition. If you experience these symptoms, you should seek medical assistance immediately. It is capable of worsening very quickly and hospitalization is required. If a patient gets immediate help, they have a better chance of recovering.

Physical Therapy and Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Physical therapy is known to play a very important role in treating Guillain-Barre Syndrome. The exercises and activities that patients perform help to reduce the negative impact of the symptoms of the condition – such as muscle weakness and pain. Physical therapists have patients do exercises that are designed to strengthen the body, train in balancing and gait, and exercises that aid in functional mobility. The following provides a more comprehensive explanation of the tasks assigned by physical therapists:

• Balance and Coordination Exercises – These exercises help to reduce the impairments caused by certain activities and aid in restoring the sufferer’s coordination and balance. This helps to reduce the risks associated with falls and helps to improve the overall mobility of the patient.
• Range of Motion and Strength – Physical therapists help patients rebuild strength that they have lost within their muscles. In most instances, the emphasis is placed on the lower extremities as these are the areas mostly impacted by Guillan-Barre Syndrome. Stretching and various types of techniques for mobilization. These activities help in maintaining joint health and overall flexibility.
• Respiratory Training – Guillan-Barre Syndrome is known for negatively affecting the muscled that help in breathing. It can also cause fatigue, and result in problems with breathing. A physical therapist will create a special training program focused on respiratory success like improving lung capacity and strengthening the respiratory muscles. An example of these exercises includes diaphragmatic breathing.
• Gait Training – It is a known fact that Guillain-Barre Syndrome causes problems with the patient’s walking patterns. Physical therapists are capable of creating individualized gait training programs that will help in optimizing the patient’s posture, the length of their step, the placement of the feet, and other activities that reduces the overall risk of falls, and optimize/improve that the patient is walking in an effective and safe manner.
• Adaptive Devices – Many physical therapists recommend that Guillan-Barre Syndrome Patients use braces, walkers, and wheelchairs to aid in improving mobility and reducing fatigue.
• Psychological Help – The emotional toll that a patient experiences when they have Guillain-Barre Syndrome is tremendous. Physical therapists can act as a means of support for a patient as they cope with the complications of the illness. They can also help in ensuring that they maintain the most positive outlook possible.

Are There Any Risk Factors to Getting Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

To date, the only risk factors include aging and being a male. It is a fact that more males than females develop Guillan-Barre Syndrome; however, many women get it, too.

Are There Any Complications Associated with Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

Being that Guillain-Barre Syndrome directly impacts the nerves; there is a potential for many complications. That is because of the fact that nerves are responsible for controlling the movements in your body and the functions of your body. The following outlines some of the complications that may be experienced with this condition:

• Problems Breathing
• Numbness
• Painful Sensations
• Heart Problems
• Problems with Blood Pressure
• Bowel Trouble
• Bladder Problems
• The Development of Clots
• Development of Pressure Sores
• Relapse

It has been determined that if a patient has more severe symptoms in the beginning of the onset of Guillain-Barre Syndrome, they will have a higher risk of long-term problems. While rare, death may even occur from complications like heart attacks and respiratory distress and/or failure, hypoxia, and similar issues.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, contact us here at Back to Motion Physical Therapy. Our team will be able to educate you on the condition and will be able to customize a care plan – created just for you. We offer exercises, anti-gravity treadmill, dry needling, custom orthotics. If you would like to set up a consultation or have questions, contact us today by calling: 303-832-5577

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What is the Trigeminal Nerve?

The trigeminal nerve is considered to be one of the main nerves associated with the face. In some instances, it is referred to as the “fifth cranial nerve”. This nerve is split into three unique branches. They are as follows:

1. Ophthalmic Branch – This branch goes to the area around the eyes, the forehead, and the scalp.
2. Mandibular Branch – This branch goes directly into the area of the jaw.
3. Maxillary Branch – This goes into the cheek region.

Each of these branches transmit sensations – such as touch and pain – from the face, teeth, mouth, and jaw to the brain. This nerve is also responsible for controlling the muscles that are used for chewing and the production of both tears and the saliva.

What are the Symptoms of The Trigeminal Nerve Being Triggered?

When the trigeminal nerve is triggered, one will typically experience severe pain that comes on suddenly. The pain may last as little as a couple of seconds or as long as a couple of minutes. The pain is normally isolated to just one side of the face in and around the cheek and jaw region. Involuntary facial movements may occur.

While the pain is usually the only symptom that occurs and the nerve functions as it is supposed to, it may be very troublesome for the sufferer. The good news is, physical therapists are capable of assisting those with trigeminal neuralgia issues.

What Causes the Trigeminal Nerve to be Triggered?

In a large percentage of cases, the underlying cause of trigeminal nerve being triggered is a blood vessel that is pressing on the root of the nerve. In other cases, a tumor, abnormalities located at the base of the skull or multiple sclerosis may be to blame. Of course, there are those cases where no cause can be uncovered.

Progression of Trigeminal Neuralgia Issues and Who it Affects

The very first attack associated with trigeminal neuralgia often develops fast and without any type of warning. The sufferer may experience the bursts of pain occasionally or multiple times each day. It is possible for the first pain session to go on for days, a few weeks, or even months. Following this, the sufferer will typically go into remission. As time progresses, the episodes experienced are more severe as the pain increases. Age results in the severity of the issue, too.

How are Trigeminal Neuralgia Issues Diagnosed?

The diagnosis is usually diagnosed if the sufferer experiences the pain associated with the condition. A doctor may order an MRI scan in the event that the condition cannot be pinpointed and diagnosed based on the symptoms experienced. In some instances, a sufferer may have an underlying condition, the patient is younger than 40 years old, and/or the patient is not responding to the treatment provided.

Treatment Options

There are several different types of treatment options available for those that suffer from trigeminal neuralgia issues. These include medications, physical therapy, deep brain stimulation, and surgery. Each of these treatment options are outlined below:

Medications

There are several types of medications that are known to be highly beneficial to trigeminal neuralgia issues. The first and most common medication is Carbamazepine. This medication quiet downs the impulses from the nerve. Effectiveness is typically experienced in 1-2 days. Sufferers that take this medication may find that they become drowsy, experience nausea, and may even become dizzy. The other medications that may be prescribed includes Lamotrigine, Baclofen, Gabapentin, and Oxcarbazepine.

Physical Therapy

Generally speaking, when one has trigeminal neuralgia issues, the physical therapy treatment focuses on manual techniques that are relatively gentle.

Physical Therapy Treatments for Trigeminal Neuralgia include soft tissue release, trigger point therapy, joint mobilizations, the utilization of a TENS unit that will help in blocking signals of pain, exercise therapy, and relaxation techniques.

When you make an appointment with a physical therapist, they will require a consultation. Then, a care plan designed just for you will be created that has the primary goal of reducing pain and improvements in the ability of you to perform daily activities.

Deep Brain Stimulation

If treatments do not provide ample relief, deep brain stimulation is an option. Electrical impulses are sent to the brain to aid in relieving the pain. In most instance, this is a method that is used in a trial conducted for research purposes. Very few people opt for this treatment.

Surgery

If medications do not provide pain relief or result in uncomfortable side effects, there are a couple of surgical options that may help. These include the following:

1. Decompression – This surgery moves or removes the blood vessel that is pressing on the trigeminal nerve. Stroke and deafness are two risks that are associated with this major operation.
2. Ablative Surgery – This surgery includes those like gamma knife. These options are less invasive. What happens is part of the nerve is destroyed and that is to help to reduce the amount of pain that is experienced. It is not an advised treatment course because

Are There Any Complications Associated with Trigeminal Neuralgia

The pain associated with trigeminal neuralgia include pain levels that could be so severe that they are distressing. Many sufferers become depressed and anxious due to the flare ups and the degree of pain. It is common for sufferers to avoid dental care due to the pain. Many may elect not to eat to avoid flare ups and as a result, they may lose weight or experience malnutrition issues. If you have this condition, it is advised that you make an appointment with a physical therapist right away so that a treatment plan may be customized for your issue.

When is a Brain Scan or Other Tests Required?

Yes, there are situations in which a brain scan and/or other tests are required. These include having symptoms that are not typically experienced with the condition, an underlying cause that is not usual for the condition is suspected, a person under the age of 40 is having issues, the condition fails to improve with treatment, and when surgery is being considered to treat the condition. If any of these conditions come into play, an MRI scan will likely be ordered.

What are the Diagnostic Criteria for Trigeminal Neuralgia Issues?

In order to be diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia issues, there must be pain in the area where the trigeminal nerve is located that is recurrent and it lasts for anywhere up to a total of two minutes. The pain experienced must be intense and must be similar to shocks of electricity. It may be diagnosed as “Classical TN”, “Secondary TN” or “Idiopathic TN”.

Little Known Information Regarding Trigeminal Neuralgia

This condition is occasionally referred to as “tic douloureux” or “tic”. In terms of pain, it results in some of the worst pain known to humans. It may affect all areas of the face from the bottom of the face to up above the eye area. Tegretol is considered to be the most effective medication. Other medications may be prescribed but none of them seem to have the same level of effectiveness that Tegretol has. If a surgical procedure is recommended, it must first be established what branch of the nerve is affected.

Are There Conditions That Mimic TN?

Yes, there is one issue that is similar to TN and that is hemifacial spasm. This includes abnormal discharge from the facial nerve which causes twitches of the muscles and spasms. If this is experienced, common treatments include Botox infections. These weaken the facial muscles. Both TN and hemifacial spasm have the ability to decrease a person’s quality of life.

Contact Us

We here at Back to Motion Physical Therapy offer a wide array of solutions for those that suffer from trigeminal neuralgia issues. If you research our website, you will discover information about the many services that we offer to our patients. If you want to set up a consultation, we will go over your symptoms and create an individualized care plan that will help you. The plan may include exercise therapy, TENS treatment, and/or manual maneuvers. Ultimately, the goal is to reduce the pain that you experience and restore your ability to function. You will find that by working with us, your pain will be reduced and your quality of life will be increased. We offer personalized care on other issues, too. We are your one shop treatment stop. Call us now at: 303-832-5577

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Injuries like whiplash from car accidents, sports-related incidents, or falls can stretch and damage the muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues in the neck, leading to pain and limited motion. ​ Poor posture, whether from weak musculature or repetitive strain, can cause muscular fatigue and joint compression, resulting in discomfort. ​ 

Emotional stress can exacerbate neck pain by causing muscle tension, while the natural degeneration of spinal discs and joints with age can lead to stiffness and nerve impingement. ​ Effective treatment and prevention strategies include maintaining proper posture, controlling swelling and pain, encouraging pain-free movement, relaxation and stretching, strengthening exercises, and adopting preventive measures to avoid re-injury.

What Causes Neck Pain? 

As mentioned above, there are many causes behind neck pain. These include the following: 

• Poor Posture – When you practice good posture and you either sit or you stand in a way that causes the head, the shoulders, the back, and the hips in a balanced manner, stress is placed on the joints and neck pain may develop. 
• Muscle Strains – If you have a muscle strain – which is a small tear that develop within the muscle tissue – you may experience neck pain. 
• Infection – If an infection invades the area of the cervical spine, it could lead to the onset of neck pain. 
• Arthritis – This condition leads to pain and inflammation within the joints, and this includes the neck. As inflammation affects the areas in and around the neck, neck pain may develop. 
• Nerve Compression – Irritation and/or the pinching of the roots of the nerves within the spinal column may cause neck pain varying in severity from mild to severe. 
• Herniated Disc – If a disk in the neck area pushes down upon a nerve or herniates, it could result in the onset of neck pain. 
• Spinal Stenosis – the abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal and/or the neural foramen may place pressure on the nerve roots and spinal cord. When this happens, it could cause neck pain. 
• Spondylarthrosis – When the vertebral columns experiences degeneration, neck pain may occur. 

In addition to the above-listed issues, the following may also result in the development of neck pain:

• Fibromyalgia
• Osteoarthritis
• Whiplash
• Neoplasm
• Muscle Pain
• Neck Sprains
• Exercises
• Stretches
• Sleeping in Inappropriate Positions
• Injuries
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Meningitis
• Myofascial Pain Syndrome
• Degenerative Diseases
• Vertebrae Abnormalities
• Birth Defects
• Tumors
• Cancer

What are the Recommended Treatments for Neck Pain?

Recommended treatments for neck pain include:

Immediate Actions:​

• Stop all strenuous activities if pain develops suddenly or is related to direct trauma.
• Apply ice wrapped in a towel to the injury for 20 minutes every 2-3 hours for the first 48 to 72 hours to reduce swelling and pain.​
• After 72 hours, apply warm, moist heat through a shower or soaked towels for 20 minutes every 3-4 hours.

Medications:

• Take Tylenol®, Aleve®, or Ibuprofen as directed on the package and with food.

General Advice:

• Avoid activities that significantly increase neck pain.​
• Return to normal daily activities as tolerable, avoiding anything that significantly increases neck pain.​
• Rest and gentle stretching to help muscles relax.​
• Exercise with caution during recovery to prevent re-injury.

When to See a Healthcare Provider:

• ​If neck pain or headache is caused by direct trauma to the head or if the headache is severe.
• If there is weakness or sensation loss in the arms that doesn’t resolve.​
• If pain prevents normal activities for longer than a few days.

​How Can a Physical Therapist Help with Neck Pain? 

If you suffer from neck pain, it is recommended that you seek the assistance of a physical therapist. These professionals are capable of helping with neck pain in that they utilize a variety of manual therapy and exercises to target the strength, range of motion, education on maintaining the proper posture, and stretches to aid in alleviating tension in the muscles. In essence, these professionals help in reducing pain in the neck and improving function in this area of the body. 

Simple Strategies for Everyday Life to Reduce Neck Pain 

1. Use Ice (Not Heat) To Stop Pain: Apply an ice pack for 10 minutes every hour when feeling achy or painful.​
2. Sleep With One Soft Pillow: Reduces stretching and tension in the neck, helping to alleviate headaches and shoulder tension.​
3. Avoid Reading for More Than 20 Minutes in Bed: Prevents increased muscle tension and potential headaches.​
4. Choose Sensible Footwear: Wear well-fitted, cushioned shoes to reduce pressure and stress on the spine.​
5. Avoid Carrying Your Backpack or Bag on One Arm: Distribute weight evenly to prevent neck and shoulder tension.​
6. Ensure Laptop Screen Is Set at The Correct Height: Prevents looking downwards and reduces pressure on the spine.​
7. Get Moving with Physical Therapy: Visit a physiotherapist to soothe tight muscles, loosen stiff joints, and strengthen your body.

Bonus Tips:

• Daily Lower Back Exercise Rituals: Strengthen lower back muscles to support neck and shoulder posture.​
• Avoid High Heels: Reduces pressure on the spine and shoulders.​
• Do Regular Pilates: Improves muscle tone and control, reducing tension and pain.​
• Stretch Yourself at The Beginning and End of Every Day: Incorporate Yoga to increase flexibility and reduce muscle tightness.​
• Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly to prevent muscle aches and fatigue.​
• Avoid Sleeping on Your Stomach: Prevents twisting and improper positioning of the neck and shoulders.

What is a Physical Therapist? 

A physical therapist is a licensed practitioner that examines, makes a diagnosis, and directly treats a movement-based dysfunction of the body. These professionals specialize in assisting people with injuries, diseases, illnesses. PTs help in preventing loss of motion, strength, and range of motion. In addition, these specialists place an emphasis on promoting wellness. The physical therapist uses an assortment of therapeutic-based exercises, various modalities, different types of assistive devices, educate patients, and evidence-based types of research to assist their patients. 

What Qualifications are Required to Become a Physical Therapist? 

To become a physical therapist, the following qualifications are required:

1. High school diploma or GED.​
2. Bachelor’s degree.​
3. Completion of a three-year Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree program.​
4. Passing the DPT licensure exam.

Some DPT programs offer freshman entry, allowing students to enter directly from high school.

What are the Main Functions of a Physical Therapist? 

The main functions of a physical therapist include:

1. Patient Care Experience: Assimilating knowledge, acquiring skills, and developing judgment through patient care to make independent and appropriate decisions in practice.​
2. Collaboration: Working with other health care professionals, the patient, and the patient’s family.​
3. Assessment and Management of Movement Disorders: Assisting patients in moving safely and performing motor function tests and treatments.​
4. Communication: Effectively communicating with patients, families, physicians, and other health care team members, including recognizing non-verbal communication and making timely, accurate patient assessments.​
5. Ethical Practice: Understanding and practicing ethical physical therapy, demonstrating compassion, empathy, altruism, integrity, responsibility, and tolerance.​
6. Adaptability: Functioning effectively under stress and adapting to rapidly changing environments.

These functions ensure that physical therapists are competent and caring professionals capable of benefiting their patients.

What Will a PT Do for Neck Pain? 

If you see a physical therapist to get help with neck pain, you will find that the professional works to improve the strength of the neck. They will encourage you to engage in exercises that work out the neck and all of the muscles in and around the neck. Not only does this help in strengthening the neck, but it also aids in increasing the overall flexibility of the neck. In most instances, it will take a physical therapist anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks to resolve your issues with pain in the neck. This is a small-time frame given the severity of the pain that you may experience. It does not matter if you have an infection, an underlying medical condition, or an injury. In as little as 6 weeks, a physical therapist can help you with your neck. 

Contact Us 

If you have neck pain, we here at Back to Motion are standing by to assist you. We offer a wide range of services and treatments. Examples include vestibular therapy, neck pain specific services, and more. We currently have two locations in the State of Colorado – one in Denver, and one in Wheat Ridge. If you suffer from vertigo with the neck pain, we can assist in helping you with that, too! Our number one goal is to get you back to normal. It is our goal to help you get back to your life and suffer less from pain. You may contact us today to learn more about our services, what we treat, and even to set up an appointment with one of our trained physical therapists. Simply contact us today at: https://backtomotion.net/

The post What Causes Neck Pain and How a Physical Therapist Can Help  appeared first on Back To Motion. Denver Physical Therapy..

Each person diagnosed with this condition is affected in their own unique way; however, all people with multiple sclerosis may benefit from participating in physical therapy.

In this guide, we will outline how physical therapy can help with multiple sclerosis.

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the body that involves the direct loss of myelin. This material protects the nerves in the central nervous system. When nerves do not have that myelin protection, they cannot communicate with one another.

The symptoms experienced by patients vary based on the area of the nervous system that is impacted.

What are the Symptoms of MS?

There are many symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis. In most instances, the first sign of the condition is double vision. In addition to this, any of the following symptoms may also be experienced:

• Extreme fatigue that is not relieved from rest may be experienced.
• Many experience extreme difficulty with walking and may also suffer from balance problems.
• The legs and the arms of many MS patients may feel heavy and stiffness and/or spasms may be experienced.
• Problems with the bladder and/or the bowel such as urine leakage and/or high levels of urgency may be experienced.
• Cognitive issues – such as thinking issues and memory problems may be experienced.
• Various types of sexual dysfunction may be experienced by someone who has MS; examples include experiencing less sensitivity or sensation, lower levels of desire, complications in achieving an orgasm, and dryness.
• Many patients experience pain and other types of sensations.
• Mood and emotional issues may be experienced. Examples of these include depression and not appearing to have any feelings, which is apathy.
• Vision problems are very common such as double vision, blurry vision, and random and unusual movements of the eyes.
• Many experience speech and swallowing issues when they have MS.
• Vertigo and dizziness may also be experienced.

Physical therapy is capable of assisting those that experience most of the above-listed symptoms – especially those involving movement and range of motion.

Do The Symptoms of MS Come and Go?

Yes, the symptoms that MS patient experiences are capable of coming and going. This is because the disease is capable of going into remission. When someone with MS experiences a relapse, the symptoms that they suffer from may vary in terms of strength and overall duration.

For example, one may experience a relapse as a result of being around heat. Some relapses will cause a patient to be hospitalized and other patients will be capable of managing their symptoms at home with one or more medications.

Once the symptoms start to settle a person may experience a little bit of function loss. Many may recover quickly after a relapse. Then, there are those that will experience some degree of disability after a relapse.

When in remission from Multiple Sclerosis, a physical therapist may aid in providing a boost to strength, range of motion, and endurance levels.

What Can a Physical Therapist Do for People with MS?

A physical therapist can help neurological disorders in many different ways. The ultimate goal is to help the patient return to the roles that they experienced previously at home, at their job, and within their community. The following outlines the main steps involved when a MS patient sees a physical therapist:

1. First, the patient has a complex examination done to determine the impairments, limitations, and restrictions that they have.
2. The patient will be asked about the goals that they have, and the condition of the patient will be considered.
3. An exercise program will be created that is tailored to the patient.
4. It has been established that in the early stages of multiple sclerosis that the patient experiences complications in their ability to walk, maintain their balance, and in breathing. A physical therapist will place a special focus on these activities early in the treatment program that they set up. This will help in – possibly – slowing down the overall progression of the disease.

Will Regular Physical Therapy Programs Provided Additional Benefits?

It is true that newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis patients should attend physical therapy sessions. If the patient continues to receive PT, they will reap many rewards including the following:

• Improved Gait
• Increased Strength of The Core of Their Body
• Improvements in Balance
• Higher Levels of Flexibility
• Reduced Bouts of Spasticity
• Optimal Coordination
• The Ability to Endure Higher Levels of Aerobic Activity
• Improved Functionality of the Respiratory System
• Coping with the Changes That Occur in the Body
• Help in Developing Strength and Stamina
• Aid in Helping Patients in Avoiding the Worsening of Symptoms
• Help in Regaining Various Bodily Abilities After a Relapse

Are There Different Types of PT Treatments for MS Patients

There are various types of PT treatments for MS patients. The following outlines the most common, along with a brief explanation of each:

• Exercise and Fitness – This type of treatment includes various types of exercise machines and even programs such as yoga
• Strengthening – This type of treatment is designed to build up the legs and the arms through activities like balancing, relaxation techniques, and stretching activities.
• Water Therapy – This is often referred to as “aquatic therapy”. This includes exercises performed in the pool. The overall buoyancy of the water helps in supporting people that have complications in walking. The good thing about this type of therapy is that the water buoyancy helps to offset the weight of the body of the patient and provides a high level of support for the limbs. This helps the body feel lighter and the sufferer does not have to be scared of falling or of having any types of problems as a result of coordination.

Where is Physical Therapy for MS Administered?

There are many places when people with MS may have physical therapy done. It can be done at home, at a specialized inpatient MS treatment center, and even at an outpatient facility where physical therapists do rotations. The physical therapy done is typically different at each facility or location of therapy. The following provides a brief description of each:

1. Home Physical Therapy – In most instances, home physical therapy is performed on those who are newly diagnosed. This is because the patient must learn to adjust to the new changes that are happening within their body. This type of therapy is also provided to those that are in the late stages of the disease and cannot move as easily as others.
2. Inpatient Physical Therapy – Inpatient physical therapy for people who have multiple sclerosis typically occurs at a healthcare facility where the person has been admitted. This could be a hospital, a treatment center that is designed for patients with MS, and/or a care facility that is either short-term or long-term. It may be prescribed as part of the patient’s treatment plan.
3. Outpatient Physical Therapy – This type of physical therapy may occur in a physical therapist office, a therapy center, or even at a doctor’s office. In short, it is where the patient comes, engages in the therapy, and then leaves after the therapy is done.

The Physical Symptoms

The symptoms that a patient with multiple sclerosis experiences may be minimized through the use and help of physical therapy. An individualized treatment plan will be developed and that plan will place an emphasis on the areas of the highest concern.

This type of therapy is actually considered to be essential in managing the physical symptoms the patient with MS experiences. This involves the use of various types of exercises, an assortment of techniques, and numerous strategies that will help in the improving the functioning of the patient. These place an emphasis on the following:

• Balance
• Coordination
• Mobility
• Range of Motion
• Strength

Physical therapy may also help with spasticity, gait training, difficulties in walking, and more. If you have multiple sclerosis and you want to manage your symptoms and improve your physical-based functioning, we can help you here at Back to Motion Physical Therapy. We will create an individualized treatment plan for you, work with you one-on-one and ensure that your quality of life is instantly improved.

If you are tired of the muscle tightness, the pain, the numbness and tingling, and the fear of falling, we encourage you to contact us today to set up an appointment. You may also call to inquire about the range of services that we offer, have your questions answered, and learn what insurance we accept and how much are services are. Why continue struggling when we can help give you a new handle on life? Contact us now by calling: 303-832-5577

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What is the Goal of Stroke Rehabilitation?

The goal of stroke rehabilitation is to engage in activities that will allow as much independence as possible to be restored by improving physical and mental functions as well as emotional functions. This is done through therapy that preserves the dignity of the patient and in a way that motivates the patient to relearn basic skills that have been impacted – such as dressing, walking, and even eating.

The rehabilitation should start in the hospital and as quickly as possible after the stroke has occurred. It may occur as soon as the day after the stroke and may be continued after the patient is released from the hospital. Many patients may have many months or years of therapy. It could continue as a stroke patient improves or there are some cases where the patient will continue to get worse and the therapy will be continued.

The rehabilitation options available will be dependent upon many factors such as the patient’s ability to tolerate the intensity of the rehabilitation, the level of disability that has been experienced, funding available for therapy, whether or not there is insurance and the amount of coverage that insurance provides, the area that the patient is in, and their motivation to engage in therapy.

What Are the Main Options for Rehabilitation?

The following outlines the main options that are available to those that have had a stroke and require rehabilitation:

1. Acute Care – This is a type of inpatient care that is usually done at a hospital or in a special rehabilitation section of a hospital. It provides 24-hour medical care and a full range of therapy services; the therapy is done several hours each day and it is very demanding. This is the right solution for those that have numerous medical problems and are likely to develop more problems without continued medical-based treatment.
2. Sub-Acute Care – This is usually done in a rehab center, a rehab unit within a hospital, or a skilled nursing facility that offers short-term nursing care or a long-term skilled nursing unit. This is less demanding than acute programs but lasts longer than those programs. The services offered are daily nursing care and a wide range of rehabilitation services. This is ideal for survivors that have serious disabilities but are unable to handle the demands that are associated with acute care programs offered within a hospital.
3. Long-Term Care – This is perfect for those that have medical problems that are under control, but need 24-hour nursing care. The sessions occur 2-3 days each weekend is usually offered in a nursing home or a skilled nursing facility. There is one or more treatment areas offered in these facilities.
4. Outpatient Facilities – These offer one or more treatment areas 2-3 days each week. This is ideal for stroke survivors who have medical problems under control enough to live in their own home and are capable of traveling to get treatment. In most instances, this therapy is offered at a doctor’s office, an outpatient center of a hospital, some adult day care centers, and other types of outpatient centers.
5. Home Health Agencies – These offer specific types of rehabs in one or more treatment areas as needed and within the home. This is ideal for stroke survivors that live at home but are unable to travel to get the treatment that they need.

Who is on the Rehabilitation Health Cre Team?

During all of the phases of your stroke recovery and rehabilitation, you will work with a team of professionals that are from various specialties. You should know your team so that you are familiar with their role and are comfortable addressing any type of issue with them. The services that you receive during stroke rehabilitation may include one or more of the following:

1. Physical Therapist – This type of specialist aids in the restoration of skills related to physical functioning and other skills such as walking, and the range of motions. Common issues addressed by this type of specialist includes partial and one-sided paralysis, balance issues, and foot drop.
2. Occupational Therapist – This type of professional aids in helping stroke survivors relearn the skills needed to handle everyday life such as going to the restroom, dressing, showering, and eating.
3. Speech Therapist – When you have a stroke, you may start to suffer from issues with swallowing, thinking, and communicating. A speech therapist will help with these issues. There are two main conditions – dysarthria and aphasia – that result in the development of speech problems who those who have had a stroke. One causes issues with pronouncing speech sounds because of issues with the corresponding muscles. The other allows a person to think clearly but they are not able to process language enough to talk to or to understand other people. A speech therapist helps the survivor and their family with methods for these common communication challenges.
4. Physiatrist – This specialist focuses on rehabilitation services after an illness, accident, or injury.
5. Neurologist – This specialist focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of stroke and other issues that impact the brain and the spinal cord.
6. Rehabilitation Nurse – This type of nurse helps people who have disabilities by helping survivors successfully manage their health problems that affected the stroke. Examples include high blood pressure, diabetes, and they help the patient adjust to life after having a stroke.
7. Dietician – This specialist teaches stroke survivors about eating healthy and special diets such as low salt, low sugar, and low calorie.
8. Neuropsychologist – Diagnoses and treatments survivors who are experiencing issues with thinking, memory, and behavior following a stroke.
9. Social Worker – This person helps a stroke survivor about rehab programs, living arrangements, insurance, and support services.
10. Case Manager – Helps in following up to acute care, coordinate care for multiple providers, and local services.
11. Recreation Therapist – This specialist helps stroke survivors learn strategies to improve the thinking and the movement skills that are needed to join in recreational activities.

Health Insurance is a Necessity

It is a known fact that stroke rehabilitation is extremely expensive. You should know what part of your treatment will require you to pay out of pocket. Recovery from a stroke may require extensive levels of rehabilitation. You may require services in different settings that vary in costs. If you worked prior to the stroke, you should apply for disability benefits afterwards. You may get private disability from an employer and government disability from the Social Security Administration. Applying may take a while, you should keep copies of all letters they send you and all paperwork that you send them. You should also make notes of the people that you talk to, what you talked about, and when you talked to them. If you are – ultimately – denied, you should find out about the appeal process and challenge the denial. You can learn more about disability by calling 800-772-1213 or visiting www.ssa.gov.

Modifying Your Home

Once you are able to return home, it may be necessary to make modifications so that you are able to live independently and safely. You should make adjustments to the following:

• Narrow doorways
• Narrow stairs
• Stairs that do not offer stability features
• Bathtubs – transition to walk-in showers
• Add ramps
• Add Grab bars where needed
• Remove throw rugs
• Utilize assistive devices such as raised toilet seat or a grab bar toilet seat system
• Use a shower chair
• Ask your doctor if they recommend a walking device or any other assistive devices

How We Can Help

We here at Back to Motion Physical Therapy help stroke survivors successfully transition back into their daily lives. We offer a multitude of services such as dry needling, vestibular therapy, balance training, custom orthotics and the anti-gravity treadmill. We treat many conditions that occur as a result of a stroke. These include various types of pain throughout the body, and new onset disability – such as paralysis. If you want to get back to normal as quickly as possible, we encourage you to contact us today. We can create a custom care plan based on your individual needs to aid in your stroke recovery. You no longer need a referral in Colorado for physical therapy, you just have to set up an appointment. We do our best to work around your needs. You may reach one of our stroke recovery specialists today by calling the following number: 303-832-5577

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What is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy?

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy is a multi-system disorder. It is now most often referred to as “Complex Regional Pain Syndrome” or “CRPS”. Patients have severe levels of long-term pain. To date, two unique types have been discovered.

The first is one that does not result from a nerve injury.

The second results from a specific injury to the nerves.

It is a condition that involves the central nervous system, the peripheral nervous system, the autonomic nervous system, and the immune system.

How Does Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Affect the Systems of the Body?

In the following, we will outline each of the main body systems impacted by Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy and what occurs with these systems:

1. The Central Nervous System – This body system includes the brain, the spinal cord, and all associated membranes. When you have RSD, it could result in increased levels of sensitivity with the central nervous system. As a result, it results in the CNS becoming a little too overprotective. This means that normal things – such as your shirt softly brushing against the skin – becomes painful.
2. The Peripheral Nervous System – This includes the nerves that are located outside of the central nervous system and go to the limbs. This system sends various types of danger signals from the skin, the muscles, the joints, the bones, and other structures of the body to the central nervous system. If an injury has occurred with these nerves or not, a hypersensitivity may develop. In turn, this will make YOU hypersensitive to pain.
3. The Autonomic Nervous System – This nervous system in the body is the one that regulates your breathing, the heart rate, your digestion, and other types of functions that are automatic in the body. This includes the “fight or flight” response. If individuals experience a chronic level of stress or anxiety, they may develop an increased level of sensitivity – especially in the central nervous system. As a result, those “automatic” functions – such as digestion – may also experience increased sensitivity.
4. The Immune System – This system is one that is capable of detecting various types of dangers in the body. It then sends chemicals that are inflammatory in nature to combat the issue. This automatically increases the level of sensitivity with the nerves. As a result, higher levels of pain are experienced in the body.

What are the Symptoms of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy?

There are numerous symptoms associated with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. The good news is, most of these symptoms may be treated by a physical therapist. The following outlines the most commonly experienced by those diagnosed with this medical condition:

• Sensitivity to Touch
• Pain When Touched
• Temperature Variations in the Affected Limb or Limbs
• Color Variations in the Affected Limb or Limbs
• Awkward Positions with Affected Limb or Limbs
• Guarded Usage of the Body Part That is in Pain
• Disassociation from the Impacted Body Part
• Change in Appearance of Aspects of Impacted Body Part
• Swelling of Tissues
• Swelling of Joints
• Increased Sweating in Impacted Region
• Severe Pain
• Sleep Complications
• Irritability and/or Agitation
• Memory Problems
• Cognitive Complications
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Decreased Sex Desire and/or Drive
• Experiencing Discomfort in Everyday Activities – Like Showering
• Pins and Needles Pain
• Burning Pain Sensations
• Stabbing or Throbbing Pain
• Grinding Pain

It should be noted that the pain experienced with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy may or may not have a noted culprit. For example, needles and pins pain may occur in the right lower leg; however, it may seem as if the pain came out of nowhere and for no reason. While there IS an underlying cause for the pain, the sufferer may not always KNOW what the underlying cause is that caused the issue to occur.

How is RSD Diagnosed?

In most instances, a pain management specialist or a neurologist will likely diagnose the condition.

Many patients find that a physical therapist is the first person to diagnose Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. This is because most people who develop the condition do so after experiencing some type of trauma to the body.

In most instances, the physical therapist is working with the patient and recognizes the condition. If this is the case, the doctor you have and the physical therapist will work together to determine what is considered to be the absolute best level of care.

How a Physical Therapist Will Help with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

A physical therapist will play a highly vital role in the treatment of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. Being that the way the condition varies from one person to another, the treatment plan will vary from one person to another. A physical therapist not only creates a treatment plan, but helps you in achieving the personal goals that you have. They have a strong desire to help you improve your overall quality of life and will do what it takes to get you from where you are to where you want to be. The following outlines a few of the top strategies on how a physical therapist will help you with the Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy that you have been diagnosed with:

1. First, the therapist will interview you and inquire about your condition and the symptoms that you experience.
2. The healthcare professional will then ask questions in an effort to determine what triggers the symptoms that you have. Does it act up when you are at work? What about when you perform certain activities? Are you able to complete activities of daily living without a flare-up or do the symptoms show themselves while doing these activities?
3. The physical therapist will ask many questions pertaining to stressors, feared movements, your quality of sleep, and any types of issues pertaining to your level of nutrition.
4. A physical examination will be performed to test out the body and how it reacts to the activities that you must engage in with the test.
5. The physical therapist will determine if the symptoms that you experience with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy is caused by an injury to the tissues of your body or if it is a level of increased sensitivity with the nervous system.
6. A physical therapist will take all of the information that they have obtained and come up with a treatment plan. They will educate you on the condition that you suffer from and outline all of the ways that they will help you. Before, during, and after the treatment that you receive, the physical therapist will provide a steady level of patient education.
7. Physical therapy specialists will help optimize your movement and functionality by working through movement therapy with you.
8. A PT will help by having you engage in range-of-motion exercises. This will aid in decreasing tension located in the muscles and in the joints of the body. It will also help increase your personal level of tolerance for other types of physical activities.
9. Muscle weakness and various types of imbalances can result in the worsening of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. A physical therapist will focus on muscle strengthening. This will be progressive and will lead to you being able to better handle your symptoms.
10. In addition to all of the above, a physical therapist will help you in many other ways. These include working with you in manual therapy sessions, functional training, relaxation exercises, decreasing systemic-based inflammation, and other treatments. These may include an anti-gravity treadmill session, water therapy, and more!

Contact Us Today

We here at Back to Motion Physical Therapy know and understand the complications that you are experiencing with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. Living day-to-day with intense pain and discomfort is extremely difficult. We are here to help you manage the symptoms that you suffer from. We can help you become stronger and have a stronger range-of-motion. We encourage you to call today to obtain the assistance that you need.

We work with all of our clients in order to create a customized care plan. We know that each patient is unique and each patient’s care plan should be unique, too. Our goal is to ensure the optimal outcome for your health. In addition to standard physical therapy, we specialize in a large assortment of other types of therapies. We also have the anti-gravity treadmill, vestibular therapy, dry needling, and a multitude of other ways of assisting you. If you would like to learn more or want to set up an appointment, we encourage you to call us today at: 303-832-5577

The post How Physical Therapists Help Treat Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) appeared first on Back To Motion. Denver Physical Therapy..

The Physical Impact of Dementia on the Body

While it is true that the most common dementia symptoms include the loss of cognitive skills, memory complications, issues with communication, and memory loss, dementia also results in physical symptoms. To understand the effectiveness of physical therapy for dementia patients, you must understand the physical impact of the condition on the body. As the disease progresses, this impact becomes increasingly significant. The following outlines the issues that will typically develop the longer that an individual has dementia:

1. Movement Impairments – As dementia progresses, it changes the way that the patient engages in the activity of walking. The steps become shorter and the individual may start to drift to the side. Eventually, the individual will walk slower and will start dragging their feet as they walk. This increases the risk that a fall will occur.
2. Problems with Balance – Spatial awareness is negatively impacted in dementia patients. Through the progression of the condition, the patient will start to have problems judging distances. This could then result in the risk of falling, bumping into things, and tripping.
3. Increased Levels of Stiffness – Muscular problems develop in those with dementia. The muscles in the body will start to become exceptionally rigid. This is more evident when the patient has been sitting or lying down for extended amounts of time. This results in problems moving.
4. Problems with Chewing and Swallowing – Dementia patients – eventually – will start to have issues with chewing and swallowing. As a result of this, they may cough and even choke. This could result of the inhalation of the materials in the mouth and throat to be inhaled directly into the lungs. In turn, this could cause potentially deadly respiratory issues.
5. Weight Loss – Many dementia patients experience unintentional weight loss. This is due to a reduction in appetite, problems making food, and issues with chewing and struggling. This increases the risk of the patient becoming frail and even malnourished.

How Do PTs Help Dementia Patients?

There are many ways that PTs help dementia patients. First and foremost, they encourage engaging in physical activities and exercises. This is considered the ideal method of addressing symptoms without the use of potentially harmful prescription medications.

The physical therapist will evaluate the patient and determine if they struggle with activities of daily living. If so, an exercise regimen will be created and administered to help them overcome those struggles.

Physical therapists help dementia patients maintain their mobility, remain safe, and maintain their level of independence for as long as possible.

Many different types of activities may be prescribed. These include aerobic sessions, dance, stretches, and even seated activities that are designed to stretch and strengthen the muscles while improving general levels of flexibility.

From the earliest stages of the condition to the advanced stages of dementia, physical therapists will help the patient continue to live their life and their daily activities for longer.

As the patient goes through the deterioration of dementia, the therapist will shift the focus of the treatment to the practice of activities that are simple and are task-specific, such as getting out of bed easily or even steps on standing up from the seated position.

All the way through the duration of the patient’s life, the physical therapist will work to ensure that falls are prevented. Just the simplest of falls could prove to be life threatening. The therapist will instruct the patient on how to exercise and when to perform those exercises.

When working with a PT, you should choose one with experience working with older adults and specialize in conditions that are neurodegenerative in nature. They will know what physiotherapeutic activities are best for your loved one.

The Physical Benefits of Physical Therapy

The following outlines the physical benefits that a dementia patient will experience when they work with a physical therapist:

1. Improved Sleep – Dementia patients often suffer from disturbances with the sleep cycle. Physical therapists will work the patient so that they are able to experience a more restful sleep at night and that the times in which they wake are reduced.
2. Improved Gait and Balance – There are typically always issues with a person’s gait and balance when they have dementia. Physical therapy helps improve both of these components by providing training on how to successfully regain balance when it is detrimentally affected.
3. Reduced Stiffness in Muscles – Muscle stiffness and problems moving are common with dementia. Pains, cramps, and other types of discomfort are also common. The activities provided by a physical therapist will provide relief to muscles and will strengthen them, which will help in reducing stiffness.
4. Improved Cardiovascular Health – If a dementia patient starts physical therapy early, there will be improvements with their cardiovascular health – such as lower blood pressure, improved circulation, and the ability to walk faster.

Cognitive and Emotional Benefits of Physical Therapy

In addition to physical benefits of physical therapy for dementia patients, there are both cognitive and emotional benefits, too. By working with a therapist, the patient will gain confidence. The aggression that occurs with the illness will be reduced, and disease will progress more slowly and the quality of life of the patient will be almost instantly improved. In addition to this, the following will occur:

1. The cognitive functioning of the patient and the memory loss experienced by the patient will slow down tremendously. The patient’s attention span and the speed in which they process information will be improved. The memory and the patient’s executive functioning will also be improved. It is believed that the improved circulation that stems from completing physical therapy activities is what contributes to these benefits.
2. The patient’s mood will start to improve and their level of aggression will decrease. The PT activities help in reducing anxiety and the need of using prescription medication.
3. The patient’s general quality of life will be improved. Cognitive dysfunction causes patients to lose their motivation. They feel unproductive and useless. If patients have routine activities to perform, they start to feel more motivated and like they have something to live for.
4. It is a known fact that dementia results in loss of independence, over time. By actively engaging in a physical therapy program, the patient will be able to maintain their level of independence for longer.

We Can Help

If you have a loved one with dementia, it may be in their best interest to have them engage in physical therapy. We here at Back to Motion Physical Therapy specialize in the care of all types of patients – including those with dementia. We offer standard physical therapy and other services such as balance training, strength training, vestibular training, the antigravity treadmill, and more. You do not need a referral to obtain physical therapy services for your loved one in the State of Colorado. Contact us today to get your loved one started on life-changing activities that will slow the progression of dementia: 303-832-5577

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