Neurologic Physical Therapy

Neurological physical therapy can help people recover from neurological injuries or prevent the progression and worsening of chronic neurological conditions. A physical therapist will perform a detailed evaluation to determine impairments, or aspects of a patient’s physical performance that are not functioning as they should. Patients’ with neurological problems often experience muscle weakening, flexibility restrictions, and impaired sensation as a result of their condition. These problems may make activities of daily living, such as showering, cooking, getting dressed, and eating difficult. It can also limit the person’s ability to perform mobility tasks such as walking and changing positions as needed. Some common neurological diagnoses seen in outpatient physical therapy include Parkinson’s Disease, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, chronic regional pain syndrome, cerebral palsy, Guillain-Barre Syndrome, and diabetic neuropathy. Each person presenting to therapy with one of these diseases is unique and treatment plans need to be created on an individualized basis.

Some treatments may involve correcting postural dysfunction, improving endurance, gait training, balance training, and much more. Treating patients who have neurological conditions is about optimizing function and maintaining as much independence as possible. At times, it also involves educating and teaching family members how to perform certain aspects of care or assist in mobility tasks. Various neurological conditions can affect how a person responds to exercise and physical activity, so it is important to work with a therapist who understands the complexities of the disease and is able to teach you the safest way to improve or optimize function.

If you or someone you know is struggling with a neurological condition that affects their mobility or quality of life, consider consulting us at 3DPT. We can help you regain or maintain your independence and improve your overall quality of life.