Movement-Based Therapies and Exercises for Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a complex neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by a variety of symptoms, including tremors, slowness of movement, rigidity and impaired balance. Although there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, physiotherapy and exercise can play a key role in mitigating the symptoms and health impacts associated with this disease.The Canadian Guidelines on Parkinson’s Disease states that formal exercise programs are essential in improving independence in daily activities, reducing bradykinesia (slowness of movement), improving ambulation speeds and decreasing falls.[i]In this article, we will examine how exercise slows the progression of Parkinson’s disease. We will then get into some movement-based [...]
Functional Neurological Disorder Treatment
An integrated approach to functional neurological disorder treatment can help to improve strength and mobility, reduce pain, and help people with the condition regain function and independence. Functional neurological disorder or FND, is a condition that affects the central nervous system, resulting in symptoms such as weakness, seizures, tremors, balance problems, and difficulties with speech and memory. In this article we will explore is the varying symptoms and presentation of FND, how it is diagnosed, and what risk factors can predispose an individual to develop it. I will also discuss our integrated approach to functional neurological disorder treatment that [...]
Pickering Clinic Moves to Bigger, Brighter Space
Propel Physiotherapy recently relocated to a new 3,108 square foot clinical space on the first floor of 1099 Kingston Rd., Suite 5A in Pickering, Ontario, L1V 1B5. The move is part of a plan to help us to better accommodate our expanding services, increasing clientele and growing team. The larger clinic space features a bright, glass front reception area, five private treatment rooms and a boardroom, as well as a large gym space with lots of natural light. The building features accessible parking spaces and accessible washrooms, as well as ramped sidewalks and accessible doors at the main entrance. In [...]
Wheelchair Propulsion Techniques to Prevent Shoulder Injuries
Using a manual wheelchair for mobility places considerable stress on the upper limbs, particularly the shoulder joint. The repetitive nature of wheelchair propulsion as well as daily stresses of transferring and weight relieving tasks can lead to wear and tear of the shoulder joint.It is not surprising that nearly 71 percent of manual wheelchair users experience shoulder pain at some point in their lives.[i] In this article we will look at the shoulder anatomy, activities that can lead to shoulder stress, shoulder activities that minimize stress, as well as wheelchair set up and a demonstration of proper wheelchair propulsion technique.Table [...]
Non-Surgical Thumb Osteoarthritis Treatment
Thumb osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that causes wear down of the joint cartilage at the base of the thumb, resulting in pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility. Proper diagnosis and understanding of how the disease is progressing is key to determining the right approach to thumb osteoarthritis treatment and minimizing its impact. The thumb is the most important finger of the hand, responsible for almost half of our manual function.[i] If we lose mobility, strength, or stability in the thumb joints to injury or disease, like thumb osteoarthritis, it can greatly impact our independence. Just think about how many [...]
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy for Endometriosis Treatment
Surgical excision is considered the gold standard of care for the treatment of endometriosis. Yet, this approach does not guarantee resolution of symptoms and reoccurrence is common.[i] Non-invasive approaches such as pelvic floor physiotherapy for endometriosis treatment can be extremely valuable to help manage symptoms such as pain, which is often a distinguishing factor of the disease. Recently, there has been a call for better care in Canada for those experiencing endometriosis. EndoAct Canada advocates for a collaborative approach to care, recognizing the impact this disease has on both physical and mental well being. “In their lifetime, approximately 1 [...]