Individualized Neurological Rehabilitation

Neurological rehabilitation aims to treat individuals with functional and(or) cognitive impairments secondary to disorders of the central and(or) peripheral nervous system.

It consists of a comprehensive initial evaluation and an analysis of all the affected areas by the condition. There is a special focus in improving the connections between the brain and the body parts.

This comprehensive evaluation has a duration of approximately one full hour. The results of this analysis will guide the clinician in determining the proper course of rehabilitation treatment, also taking into account the medical diagnosis and individual characteristics, among other factors.

The following describe some parts of the initial PT evaluation:

EXAMINATION:

  • Postural and biomechanical movement analysis
  • Manual muscle testing of all muscle groups
  • Relative stiffness muscle assessment & flexibility
  • Range of motion joint measurements
  • Standardized measurement utilization (subjective and objective)
  • Compensatory movement and motor control analysis during specific movements.
  • Gait analysis
  • Cranial Nerve Testing
  • Spinal Reflex Testing
  • Spasticity & Rigidity Assessment
  • Central & Peripheral Sensory Testing
  • Postural analysis & Verticality
  • Balance and Equlibrium
  • Orientation and functional cognitive status
  • Assessment of the Vestibular system
  • Propioception
  • Coordination
  • Functional transfer assessment
  • Fall risk assessment

Examples of neurological disorders that can benefit from a specialized program in neurological rehabilitation (list is not inclusive of all neurological conditions that we treat):

  • Neuromuscular Diseases: Muscular Dystrophies, Congenital & Acquired Neuropathies (CMT, diabetic neuropathy), Guillain-Barre, -Transverse Myelitis, Miasthenia Gravis, Peripheral nerve injuries, Lou Gherig’s disease, Progressive Supranuclear Palsy,
  • Spine disorders: Lumbalgia, dorsalgia y cervicalgia, Radicular extremity pain, Disc hernias & bulges, Spinal Nerve Compressions, Stenosis, Degenerative spine changes & disease, Scoliosis, Fractures of the spine, Post-op spinal surgical procedures.
  • Neurodegenerative Disorders: Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, Parkinsonism
  • Functional and(or) cognitive limitations post: Stroke syndromes, Spinal Cord Injuries (all ASIA levels), Traumatic Brain Injuries, Post-comatose state, Immobility post Prolonged bed rest &(or)hospitalization, Cerebral surgery, Facial Paralysis or Bell’s Palsy, Cerebral Palsy
  • Balance and Equilibrium Disorders

This program works via a specialized and individualized exercise program with focus on improving FUNCTION and brain plasticity. (brain plasticity is the brain’s ability to adapt positively or negatively to change and generate new communication neural pathways).

Neurological Rehabilitation’s main goal is to promote activity dependent neuroplasticity via specialized exercise and to maximize the potential of each individual we treat.

TREATMENT:

  • Rehabilitation techniques based on scientific evidence & innovative and up-to-date treatment strategies.
  • Focus on education to the individual, caregiver and (or) family members regarding management of the specific diagnosis.
  • Rehabilitation strategies guided specifically to promote activity-dependent neuroplasticity
  • Team work and joint efforts with the whole medical and health team
  • Optimization of the body’s biomechanics regarding to static and dynamic postures.
  • Specific & individualized recommendations based on how to move during the activities of daily living.
  • Muscular re-education.
  • Transfer training and education
  • Spasticity management
  • Motor & cognitive stimulation
  • Gait training & recommendations of biomechanical assistive devices
  • Instruction regarding home modifications for fall prevention and enriched environment to help promote function.
  • Movement problem-solving
  • “LOUD” y “BIG” treatment protocols offered to individuals suffering from Parkinson’s disease.
  • NDT treatment approach to facilitate correct movement and inhibit compensatory movements.
  • TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) combined with neurological rehabilitation for individuals that have suffered a stroke or that suffer from Parkinson’s Disease.

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