Treadmill Training to Improve Walking After Stroke
It is estimated that half of all individuals who suffer a stroke are unable to walk immediately afterwards.[i] Stroke survivors often face challenges in regaining their mobility and independence, with impaired strength, sensation and balance often being a common consequence of stroke. In this blog we will discuss how treadmill training is an effective treatment technique for improving walking ability after a stroke and the most effective parameters for gait training on a treadmill for stroke survivors. We also look into the existing research to explore the value of treadmill training and identify the optimal parameters for maximizing its benefits. [...]
Neuropathic Pain Treatment: The Role of Acupuncture
Neuropathic pain treatment approach depends on the underlying cause and the individual’s symptoms and needs. At Propel Physiotherapy, we use physical therapy, including various types of manual therapy, exercise and acupuncture to relieve soreness, stiffness and discomfort that results from neuropathic pain. In this article we will explore the symptoms and causes of neuropathic pain, as well as treatment options, including how acupuncture is used to treat this difficult and complex condition. Table of Contents: What is neuropathic pain? Clinical symptoms of neuropathic pain Causes of neuropathic pain Causes of central neuropathic pain Causes of peripheral neuropathic pain Neuropathic [...]
Propel Physiotherapy’s 2023 Year in Review
For our last blog post of the year, it has become a tradition to do a roundup of the year’s hottest topics and most viewed articles. As 2023 unfolded, we almost doubled our global readership and brought insightful articles and updates to thousands of new and returning readers to our site each month. From massage therapy to neurological injuries, wheelchair techniques to lower limb injuries, sports and activity to pelvic health, and a glimpse into innovative products, our staff writers shared their expertise and experiences in an effort to help people better understand the causes, symptoms and treatment options [...]
HappyNeuron: Cognitive Rehabilitation Tool
I have incorporated HappyNeuron into my occupational therapy practices for about six months now. In this time, I have found benefits using this program with clients with: stroke, acquired brain injury, dementia and post-concussion syndrome. I first learned about HappyNeuron when talking with fellow occupational therapists that have had success using the program. Part of what excited me about using HappyNeuron was the volume of research published studying the efficacy of cognitive training, specifically how HappyNeuron Pro can help individuals with various conditions. In this article, I will share some of my insights from using it with clients and [...]
Wheelchair Accessories and Devices for Winter Weather
At Propel Physiotherapy, we assist our clients with finding the right wheelchair to fit their needs and maximize their mobility. This often includes helping them to make modifications or choose wheelchair accessories for specific activities and conditions, like our harsh Canadian winters. In this article, we take a look at typical wheelchair assessments and modifications, as well as wheelchair accessories and assistive devices that can help them tackle snow, sleet and even the beach. Table of Contents: Wheelchair assessment and modifications Wheelchair accessories and accessibility devices WheelBlades Batec Handbikes SmartDrive Freedom Trax Custom wheelchair tires and rims Action Trackchair We [...]
Home Safety Assessment for Fall Prevention
Feeling confident and walking independently are huge factors in older adults maintaining independence at home. Falls can be detrimental to this independence and represent a huge economic cost to the healthcare system. An estimated 20–30% of older Canadian adults (> 65 years old) living in the community experience one or more falls each year.[i] Physiotherapists and occupational therapists are trained in providing comprehensive assessments, as well as home safety assessments. Based on these assessments, they can recommend modifications for the home environment aimed at reducing the risk of falls. Both physiotherapists and occupational therapists play a significant role in fall [...]