How physical therapy can help neurology patients
Physical therapy is an integral part of the holistic care team approach. Our main goal is to help develop, maintain and restore maximum body movement and physical function so you can continue to be successful in activities at home, work and in your community.
Our skilled therapists, in conjunction with your primary care physician and other care team members, will work with you to identify goals and develop a comprehensive, individualized plan of care.
Evaluation
Treatment starts with an extensive 60-minute session to examine and evaluate your individual condition. Your physical therapist will use a variety of manual techniques and technology to evaluate the following:
- Fall risk category — we utilize the advanced balance BIODEX training machine as part of this assessment
- Balance
- Gait
- Posture
- Coordination/motor skills
- Gross motor skills
- Functional strength
- Pain concerns (if applicable)
- Numbness and tingling
Plan of care
Once the evaluation is complete, your physical therapist will develop and discuss a comprehensive, individualized plan of care to best restore your quality of life. The plan will focus on:
- Restoring and improving movement (walking)
- Restoring and improving balance and coordination
- Reducing pain you may have
- Strengthening
- Restoring and improving endurance
- Restoring independence
- Providing education regarding your condition
Treatment
Treatment will be tailored to your individual needs and will be monitored by your physical therapist, with an emphasis on progression and adaptation to your recovery rate. We use a balanced mix of the following to help achieve your goals.
- Hands-on manual physical therapy techniques
- Exercises specific to patient needs.
- Stretching and mobility movements
- Advanced tools and technologies
- Development of an overall exercise and strengthening program based on tasks that you need to do every day
- Educational strategies for you and family members
- Training on the proper use of devices that can help you stay mobile when a stroke has affected your ability to move, walk or keep your balance: orthoses, prostheses, canes, walkers, wheelchairs and perhaps even robotics
Integrated team and physician follow-up
Communication and coordination with your primary care physician and other members of your care team is important to us as well. Access to patient information regarding progress is available to your primary care physician through your electronic medical record. In addition, any concerns or issues are shared directly, to ensure the highest level of care.
If you have questions about physical therapy options, please talk to your primary care physician about Mount Nittany Health Physical Therapy – Fit for Play.Schedule an appointment
For new or existing patients looking to schedule an appointment, please call 814.861.8122.
