Neurological rehabilitation

Neurological rehabilitation (or neuro rehab) is the assessment and ongoing treatment for those with movement and functional problems caused by conditions or injuries to the nervous system.

Research on the brain shows us that this powerful organ has an incredible capacity to change and adapt, following alterations to the body or environment—such as an injury or condition. This capability to adapt is referred to as plasticity.  Neurological rehabilitation specialists use this capacity to improve or create new neuropathways through various training and exercises, returning you to—or close to—the level of function you had previously. It’s all about teaching your body new ways of moving.

Neurological rehabilitation physical therapy works to stimulate the nervous system through therapeutic activities and exercises, helping you to learn new ways to move. Treatment plans are unique to your condition or injury, focusing on improving cardiovascular function, strength, movement, balance and overall coordination. Physiotherapists help you optimize functionality in your current condition, as well as advise on ways to modify work and home spaces for safe, efficient and independent living.

Benefits may include:

Increased strength

Muscle movement training is used to strengthen muscles weakened by your condition or injury. Physiotherapists may focus on increasing muscle control and range of motion, as well as managing or decreasing spasticity (when muscles continuously contract).

Prolonged endurance

Gait training or re-training helps you develop easy and effective strategies for walking independently, on different surfaces and for a variety of activities. In some cases, mobility aids are incorporated to help with balance, posture and ease of movement. Physiotherapy treatments may involve teaching proper techniques for using these aids.

Better balance

Balance training works to improve your steadiness and confidence in walking and regular activities. When balance is improved, falls and related injuries are less likely to occur.

If your injury or condition is making your daily movement painful, frustrating or unsafe, you may be tempted to simply refrain from these activities. However, this may not only decrease your quality of life but also weaken your muscles, making it even harder to move around normally.

A neurological rehabilitation centre or specialized physio clinic can help if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms connected to your injury or condition:

• Problems with balance
• Dizziness
• Inability to walk or move without assistance or frequent breaks
• Trouble taking part in your regular activities and exercise

Neurological rehabilitation is an option that will help you move past your current limitations and discover new ways of moving for a more independent lifestyle.