It is terrifying to know that a loved one has been diagnosed with a spinal cord injury. Many people already see the worst-case situation as it is not the same as having a fractured back. If not treated, a spinal cord injury could lead to issues in breathing, bladder, bowel, Physiotherapy Treatments and more. Also, while some people recover from SCI (spinal cord injury), some may suffer from paralysis.
Talking about its treatment, physiotherapy or physical therapy is the best choice. There are now more options, thanks to the amazing advancements in procedures and various hospital equipments for SCI over the past years. Furthermore, check out the following guide about SCI and the best physiotherapy treatments.
Best Physiotherapy Treatments For Spinal Cord Injury
Here are the best physiotherapy treatments for people with spinal cord injury:
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Activity-Based Therapy
ABT or Activity-Based Therapy is a type of therapeutic exercise, also known as activity-based restorative therapy (ABRT). In addition to spinal cord injuries, it also helps people recover and rehabilitate from neurological disorders and other traumatic injuries.
This includes a lot of repetitive muscle movements to promote strength and gait training. This therapy requires you to physically stand and not sit in a wheelchair. By standing, it helps to prevent long-term sitting-related health problems.
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Conventional Physiotherapy
Conventional Physiotherapy is a type of traditional therapy that aims to promote movement. It includes a lot of hands-on therapy, stretching techniques and exercises. From managing pain, avoiding contractures, and enhancing circulation to enhancing general health, it helps a patient in overall wellness.
In addition to helping him learn to walk again, the treatment enhances muscle growth. This treatment comes in a wide variety, such as:
- Massage therapy
- Stretching muscle
- Joint manipulation
- Neurodynamic exercises
- Acupuncture joint
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Functional Electrical Stimulation
Through the use of electrodes, functional electrical stimulation or FES is a treatment type that helps weak or paralysed muscles become more functional. It is done by using electrical currents that stimulate muscle contractions. In addition to improved muscle strength, it also helps to:
- Reduce pain
- Enhances bone density
- Increased mobility
- Improved circulation
- Reduced swelling
Best Physiotherapy Examples For Spinal Cord Injury
Physiotherapy for spinal cord injury is done by experienced and professional physiotherapists. It also involves various strategies and techniques. Furthermore, for your deeper understanding, here are some best examples of physiotherapy for SCI:
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Wheelchair Training
For those using a wheelchair, your physiotherapist may train you for sitting positions and postures. The main aim behind this program is to enhance efficiency and comfort. Additionally, you’ll also learn about recovery techniques, fall prevention, etc. Based on your recovery and performance, you may also be a part of wheelchair sports.
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Balance Training
SCI affects the overall balance of a person such as sensory changes, muscle weakness, etc. This is where balance training comes which involves maintaining and improving balance while sitting or standing. For those, who can’t stand on their own, your physiotherapist may advise using medical equipments such as frames or a standing wheelchair for assistance.
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Regular Exercise
Regular exercise is an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. It is highly important and recommended for people with spinal cord injuries. In addition to improving your mobility, it helps you to stay fit and healthy overall. Moreover, it also improves mental well-being and symptoms like depression and anxiety. You can start regular exercise under the guidance of a professional physiologist.
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Transfer Training
Because spinal cord injury affects one’s mobility to move, another physiotherapy example is transfer training. In this, the physiotherapist trains a person to move around in bed, safely and effectively. It involves doing activities like sitting up in bed, rolling over, transferring in/out of bed, moving on/off the chair, the toilet, etc.
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Gait Training
Also known as walking training, gait training is a program that aims at enhancing the quality and speed of your gait. For instance, if you can walk, your physiotherapist will train you to walk longer distances, thereby improving your ability. This also includes the use of hospital equipments such as crutches for help.
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Strength Training
Spinal cord injury has a great impact on muscle weakness. This is where strengthening exercises come in. The strength training program involves improving your shoulder strength and leg strength as well as improving your standing and walking balance.
How to Take Care of Someone with a Spinal Cord Injury?
Firstly, it is important to keep in mind that each person’s road to recovery is unique. Be it you or your loved one, one should never compare or hasten the process of healing. However, with proper care and attention, one can lessen the risk and enhance the speed. So the question remains- how to care for a person with a spinal cord injury?
Depending on the severity of the injury, you can watch out for many things. This includes helping the person with dressing, cleaning or other bathroom necessities. In other words, you must keep an eye out for anything that could increase the person’s injury. To make sure the person stays healthy during recovery, a wise decision would be to seek a doctor’s guidance.
In addition to physical health, SCI also affects one’s mental health. So, it is important to take care of their mental and emotional health too. You can also invest in additional medical equipments such as wheelchairs or walking aids for assistance. It will lighten your burden and also will ensure extra support to the patient.
Positive Outlook Leads to a Sooner Recovery
We at Medguard are the leading provider of healthcare equipment and furniture. From wheelchairs to bed rail protectors, we have a wide array of products for all your medical needs. Each product is made with care and tested rigorously to ensure you have a smooth experience during your recovery journey.
We also have a team of experts who are highly knowledgeable and can guide you thoroughly at every step of the way. Be it in small quantities or bulk, we keep our products in stock to meet every client and industry’s needs. Overall you can rely on us for superior quality products and services at affordable prices.
Read More: webexplore.co.uk
Read More: webexplore.co.uk
