When many people imagine a day in the life of a physical therapist in NJ, they think of helping people to recover from injuries, like a broken leg or a traumatic brain injury. But physical therapists also help people with other conditions—in fact, we work with anyone who has experienced a change in mobility, or who doesn’t move like they used to. For people with movement disorders, this can be an important tool in maintaining safety and independence. What is a movement disorder, and how can physical therapy in Englewood NJ help?
Movement Disorders
A movement disorder is a neurological condition that causes a person to move in unexpected, unintended ways. They may move more slowly than planned, may have uncontrolled body movements, or may have subtle movements for no purpose. Tremors are one of the best-known movement disorders, and many people are also familiar with Parkinson’s Disease and Huntington’s Disease, both conditions that can cause shaking, uncontrolled movements, and more. Restless leg syndrome and Tourette’s syndrome are also examples of movement disorders, and these are just a few. Movement disorders can be minor irritations, or can be completely debilitating.
Can Physical Therapy in NJ Cure a Movement Disorder?
Unfortunately, movement disorders are usually driven by neurological causes—your brain or nervous system is causing these movements. Physical therapy can help manage symptoms, but will not cure a movement disorder. It is important to always continue to work with your medical team, usually involving a neurologist, to keep your movement disorder carefully monitored. Most movement disorders do not have cures, but do have treatments.
How Does Physical Therapy Help with Movement Disorders?
Even if it isn’t a cure, physical therapy can help you with the symptoms of your movement disorders. Each person’s symptoms look different, and your physical therapist in Englewood will work with you and your medical team to address those symptoms. For example, if your leg muscles are weakening as a result of your condition, your physical therapist may work with you on leg strengthening exercises. Overall strengthening, conditioning, and stretching can improve many conditions, as can fall-reduction treatment. Your physical therapist will carefully choose interventions for your movement concerns.
When you choose a physical therapist from Home Rehab Consultants, we come to you! Our in-home physical therapy services in NJ can help you move better, so call today to get started!