Chiari Malformation Treatment
Chiari malformation is a condition where the lower part of the brain pushes down into the spinal cord. While some people with this condition will never have symptoms, late childhood and early teen years are when symptoms typically do occur. While surgical management can address headaches, hydrocephalus (abnormal build-up of fluid in the cavities deep in the brain) and nerve compression, physiotherapy addresses many of the other factors and sequalae including pain management, muscle imbalances, vestibular issues, and gait training. Outcomes for Chiari malformation depend greatly on the extent of nervous system involvement. In this article, we will look [...]
Knee Osteoarthritis Physiotherapy and Knee Replacement Rehabilitation
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis of the knee and a significant cause of disability. With osteoarthritis the cartilage in the joint breaks down changing the underlying bone and often leading to pain, stiffness and swelling. As a result, knee osteoarthritis can have huge effects on mobility and function. In this article, we will examine the anatomy of the knee joint, risk factors and symptoms of knee osteoarthritis, as well as treatment options, including knee osteoarthritis physiotherapy and knee replacement rehabilitation post-surgery. Table of Content Anatomy of the Knee Joint Risk Factors for Knee Osteoarthritis Knee Osteoarthritis Symptoms [...]
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Treatment Strategies
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is one of the most common forms of muscular dystrophy. Muscular dystrophy is a group of more than 30 inherited muscle diseases that cause progressive weakness in the muscles that control movement. Symptoms vary based on the type of muscular dystrophy, the muscles involved, how fast the disease progresses, and the age when diagnosed. In this article, we will look at the cause, signs and symptoms, as well as potential Duchenne muscular dystrophy treatment strategies.[i] Table of Contents What is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)? What Causes Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy? Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Symptoms Early Sings [...]
Key Strategies for Supporting Healthy Aging with SCI
A spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-changing injury that often changes the way you interact with the world. In general, life expectancy following and SCI has improved significantly in the past century, however, the years lived with additional disability are apparent[i]. How you mobilize is the most easily identifiable change. Less apparent changes like your social status or the role you play in your family can be just as metamorphic. Keeping on top of our health as we age can be difficult. Remaining physically healthy and mobile as the normal aging process takes effect on our bones, joints [...]
Mindful Aging: The Benefits of Mindfulness Training for Older Adults
The recent popularity of mindfulness and growing research around its many benefits has allowed it to be part of the modern prescription for health and wellness. You can now find meditations and information on any number of mindfulness topics—from mindful walking and mindful eating to mindfulness in the workplace and mindful parenting. But what about mindful aging? Research around mindfulness has shown that it has benefits in several areas around aging including cognitive, physical, and emotional gains. It is actually possible to experience aging with greater ease and joy. This is great news for an aging population. Over the [...]
SMA Spinal Muscular Atrophy Treatment
Spinal muscular atrophy or SMA is a genetic muscle-wasting disorder that affects 1 in 6,000 to 1 in 10,000 births. SMA can delay development, make chewing and swallowing difficult and in some cases can be fatal. Although, there is no cure for SMA, there are various forms of spinal muscular atrophy treatment. There are four types of SMA that vary in severity, prognosis and symptoms onset. Spinal muscular atrophy treatment depends on the type and severity of symptoms. In general, cases include varying degrees of muscle weakness, fatigue, and respiratory issues among other symptoms. In this article we will [...]