Tel: 0161 706 2618
CONDITIONS WE TREAT
This list is not exhaustive, as many neurological conditions are continuously evolving. Please feel free to contact us to discuss any other neurological conditions not listed here.
STROKE
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted. This can happen due to a bleed in the brain, known as a haemorrhagic stroke, or due to a clot that blocks blood flow, referred to as an ischaemic stroke, which is the most common type. Additionally, strokes can occur in the spinal cord, which are called spinal strokes.
At NG Physio, we will conduct a thorough assessment and discuss your personal goals. Since every stroke is unique, it is essential to address your specific challenges and determine how we can assist.
After a stroke, individuals may experience various issues, including sensory problems, where sensations may feel less sensitive or, in some cases, hypersensitive. We can work on sensory stimulation and other compensatory strategies to help with this. Muscle alignment may also be affected due to high or low muscle tone. Through facilitation techniques, we can improve postural awareness and alignment, which may alleviate stiffness and tightness. These techniques can also help reduce pain.
We will concentrate on both specific and overall muscle strengthening exercises, as well as exercises targeting balance and coordination, which are common challenges following a stroke.
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS)
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord, leading to a variety of symptoms. In MS, the myelin, which protects nerves and facilitates the transmission of nerve impulses, becomes damaged and forms scar tissue. This disruption affects the communication between the brain and spinal cord.
The symptoms of MS vary widely among individuals, depending on the location and extent of the damage and scarring. As a progressive neurological condition, many people experience flare-ups, during which physiotherapy can help manage new symptoms. Additionally, physiotherapy can be beneficial for maintaining current functions and working towards other goals.
Common symptoms of MS include muscle weakness, stiffness, and spasms. Patients may also experience high muscle tone in both the upper and lower limbs, for which stretches may be recommended for caregivers and family members to assist with. Foot drop is another frequent issue, and individuals often require guidance on properly fitting orthotics. Fatigue is a significant concern for many, and fatigue management plans can be developed to address it.
Many clients may also struggle with balance issues and a heightened risk of falling. Together, we can create effective strategies to address these challenges. Furthermore, pain management advice and therapy can alleviate muscle spasms, and we can design positioning plans to help maintain current functions.
PARKINSON'S DISEASE (PD)
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that leads to movement disorders. It results from the loss of nerve cells in the substantia nigra, which produce dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical that helps transmit messages in the brain to coordinate movement.
There are various types of Parkinson's disease, and some individuals may be diagnosed with Parkinsonism. At NG Physio, we specialise in treating individual symptoms to help clients achieve their personal goals.
Common symptoms of PD may include freezing during gait. To address this, we teach compensatory strategies and explore different options to identify the best solution for you. We are flexible and happy to work around your schedule, as many people with PD perform better at specific times, such as after taking medication.
PD can cause stiffness in the joints, and we will collaborate on improving alignment and postural awareness to enhance mobility and gait patterns. Focusing on alignment and posture will also have a positive impact on balance. We can develop specific exercises to continue progressing in this area and help prevent falls.
If you experience difficulties with the initiation of movement, we can provide additional strategies to improve this aspect as well.
BRAIN INJURY/TBI/ABI
There are various types of brain injuries that individuals may experience. One example is a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can occur during incidents such as road traffic accidents. Another type is an acquired brain injury (ABI), which may result from a brain haemorrhage occurring outside of the brain within the meninges, known as subdural or subarachnoid haemorrhages. ABIs can also be caused by infections like encephalitis or meningitis, as well as specific brain tumours.
Additionally, there are other forms of brain injury, such as an anoxic brain injury, which happens when the brain is deprived of oxygen, often due to events like cardiac arrest or complications at birth.
The brain's complexity means that injuries can lead to a wide range of problems, affecting mobility, memory, speech, and attention. At NG Physio, we treat each person as an individual and concentrate on the goals you set for yourself. We work together step by step to help maximise your independence. Given the nature of brain injuries, we collaborate with carers and family members to provide support with exercises and positional changes.
Other potential issues related to brain injuries may include ataxia, altered sensation, weakness, fatigue, balance problems, and coordination difficulties. Our team possesses specialised skills designed to improve these areas.