Neuro physiotherapy, as the name suggests, is a specialized form of physiotherapy that focuses on treating individuals with neurological conditions. This type of physiotherapy is different from standard physiotherapy, which primarily focuses on musculoskeletal injuries and conditions.
What Is Neuro-Physiotherapy?
The nervous system is responsible for controlling movement and function in the body. When a person suffers from a neurological condition such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or a traumatic brain injury, the nervous system can be affected, leading to impairments in movement and function.
Neuro physiotherapy is designed to address these impairments by improving mobility, balance, coordination, strength, and functional abilities. This is achieved through a range of techniques, including exercise therapy, manual therapy, gait training, and electrical stimulation.
Neuro-Physiotherapy Techniques
Exercise therapy is one of the key techniques used in neuro physiotherapy. Specific exercises are designed to help activate and strengthen weakened muscles, improve joint mobility, and reduce pain. Manual therapy techniques may also be used to help improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
Gait training is another important technique used in Essex physiotherapy. This involves training to improve walking ability, which may include exercises to strengthen leg muscles, balance training, and the use of assistive devices such as walkers or canes.
Electrical stimulation is another technique used in neuro physiotherapy. This involves using electrical currents to activate weakened muscles and improve muscle tone. Functional electrical stimulation is a specialized technique that uses electrical stimulation to assist with specific movements or functions, such as grasping or standing up from a chair.
Differences From Standard Physiotherapy
The main difference between neuro physiotherapy and standard physiotherapy is the focus of treatment. Neuro-physiotherapy is focused on treating neurological impairments that affect movement and function, whereas standard physiotherapy is primarily focused on musculoskeletal injuries and conditions.
Neuro-physiotherapy also involves different assessment techniques and treatment approaches. For example, the assessment of neurological impairments may involve testing muscle strength, reflexes, and sensation, whereas the assessment of musculoskeletal injuries may involve a testing range of motion and muscle flexibility.
The Importance Of Neuro-Physiotherapy For Essex Residents
In Essex, many individuals suffer from neurological conditions and could benefit from neuro physiotherapy. According to the MS Society, around 6,700 people are living with multiple sclerosis in Essex.
Clinics in Essex physiotherapy that offer neuro-physiotherapy services can provide these individuals with specialized treatment to improve their mobility, balance, coordination, and functional abilities. Testimonials from individuals who have received neuro physiotherapy in Essex attest to the positive impact that this type of treatment can have on their lives.