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Monday, 27 February 2023
Understanding Hip Pain: Common Causes And Effective Physiotherapy Treatment
Post-burn Physiotherapy: Rehabilitation Of Patients From Third-degree Burns
Post-burn Physiotherapy: Rehabilitation Of Patients From Third-degree Burns
Burns
A third-degree burn is the most severe type of burn injury, characterized by damage to all layers of the skin and underlying tissues, including the muscle and bone. This type of burn can cause permanent damage and scarring and can be life-threatening if a large area of the body is affected.
Third-degree burns typically occur as a result of exposure to a heat source, such as flames, hot liquids, steam, or contact with hot objects. Electrical burns, exposure to chemicals, and radiation can also cause third-degree burns.
The severity of a burn injury is determined by the extent and depth of the burn. Third-degree burns involve the full thickness of the skin and are often white, brown, or charred. The affected area may be numb due to the destruction of the nerves and blood vessels.
Third-degree burns can be caused by prolonged exposure to a heat source, such as a house fire, or a shorter duration of exposure to high heat, such as touching a hot stove or coming into contact with a chemical agent. Treatment for third-degree burns typically requires hospitalization, wound care, and rehabilitation to promote healing and restore function. Physiotherapist plays a vital role in managing a burn patient. The physiotherapy management for third-degree burn includes:
Wound Care:
Third-degree burns require immediate and ongoing wound care to prevent infection and promote healing. Physiotherapists work with burn patients to clean and dress wounds, monitor for infection, and provide pain management techniques to reduce pain and discomfort.
Scar Management:
Third-degree burns can cause significant scarring, which can affect a patient's function and appearance. Physiotherapists work with patients to manage scars through massage, exercise, and other techniques designed to improve scar mobility and reduce its appearance.
Pain Management:
Third-degree burns can cause severe pain, which can be debilitating for patients. Physiotherapists can provide pain management techniques, including manual therapy, massage, and exercises, to reduce pain and discomfort.
Range of Motion and Joint Mobility:
Third-degree burns can cause significant scar tissue formation, which can limit joint mobility and cause pain. Physiotherapists work with burn patients to prevent or reduce the formation of scar tissue and improve joint mobility through exercises and stretches. They may also use manual therapy techniques to break down scar tissue and improve the range of motion.
Strengthening and Endurance:
Third-degree burns can cause significant muscle weakness, and physiotherapists work with patients to improve their strength and endurance through exercises and activities designed to build muscle and improve cardiovascular function.
Respiratory Therapy:
Third-degree burns can affect the respiratory system, and patients may require respiratory therapy to improve lung function. Physiotherapists can provide breathing exercises and airway clearance techniques to help burn patients breathe more effectively and reduce the risk of respiratory complications.
Rehabilitation and Functional Restoration:
Third-degree burns can cause significant functional impairments, and physiotherapists play a vital role in rehabilitating patients and restoring their function. They develop individualized rehabilitation programs that include exercises and activities designed to improve strength, endurance, balance, and coordination.
Psychological Support:
Third-degree burns can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health, causing anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Physiotherapists can provide psychological support and counseling to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of their injury.
Physiotherapy helps third-degree burn patients by managing wound care, scar management, pain management, improving joint mobility, promoting healing, improving strength and endurance, providing respiratory therapy, rehabilitating patients to restore function, and providing psychological support. By working closely with third-degree burn patients, physiotherapists can help them recover physically and emotionally from their injuries and regain their independence and quality of life.
Monday, 13 February 2023
Best Exercises During Pregnancy For Each Trimester
Exercise during pregnancy is generally safe for most women and can have many benefits for both the mother and the baby. Regular physical activity can help improve mood, increase energy levels, prevent excessive weight gain, and improve sleep. Additionally, exercise during pregnancy can also improve cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and prepare the body for the physical demands of labor and delivery. However, it's important to consult a physiotherapist before starting or continuing any exercise regimen during pregnancy, especially if you have any medical conditions or complications. In this blog, we will discuss the exercises that can be done during pregnancy along with their benefits,
Some women may need to modify their physical activity or avoid certain exercises during pregnancy. In general, low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and stationary cycling are recommended during pregnancy. High-impact activities, such as running, and activities that have a risk of falling or abdominal trauma, such as contact sports, should be avoided.
Guideline for Exercising During different Phases of Pregnancy:
1st Trimester (0-12 weeks):
During this phase, most women have relatively normal energy levels. Light to moderate exercises such as walking, swimming, and stationary cycling are safe and can help reduce fatigue and stress. It's important to avoid high-impact activities and activities that involve jumping, bouncing, or rapid changes of direction.During the first trimester of pregnancy, it's important to engage in physical activities that are gentle, low-impact, and safe for both you and your baby. Stretching and strengthening exercises can help to maintain good posture, reduce aches and pains, and prepare your body for the physical demands of pregnancy and childbirth. Some stretching and strengthening exercises that can be done during the first trimester of pregnancy include:
- Pelvic curls are a great way to begin working on spinal mobility and strengthening the abdominal muscles that support your belly as it grows.
- Bicep curls help prepare your arms for repeatedly lifting and holding your baby.
- Kneeling push-ups, this exercise targets the core and upper body strengthening together.
- Cat-Cow stretching exercises help to relieve lower back pain and improve posture),
- Hamstring stretches help to relieve tightness in the back of the legs),
- Leg Swings help to improve circulation and relieve tension in the legs),
- Pelvic brace or Kegels exercise helps to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which support the uterus and help prevent urinary incontinence),
- Squats help to strengthen the legs and prepare them for the physical demands of childbirth),
- Arm and Shoulder strengthening exercises help to improve posture and reduce discomfort in the upper body.
2nd Trimester (13-28 weeks):
As the baby grows and the mother's body changes, it's important to continue to modify the exercise. Avoid exercises that involve lying on your back, as this can decrease blood flow to the baby. Swimming and stationary cycling are still great options, but resistance training can also be added, focusing on the upper body, legs, and core.During the second trimester of pregnancy, it is generally safe to perform low-impact exercises, such as:
- Incline pushups, target the shoulder, triceps, and chest.
- Hip and knee flexor stretching exercises are done as the center of gravity changes and the belly tends to fall forward, creating shortened hip flexor muscles.
- Mermaid stretching exercises can also be done as the baby grows, it can start to create pressure on the diaphragm and ribs that can be painful.
- Side-lying leg lifts help to prepare for the changing center of gravity, it’s important to get the muscles that help with balance and assist in pelvic stabilization stronger.
- Pelvic Tilts, This exercise helps to strengthen the lower back and abdominal muscles.
- Squats, target the legs, glutes, and core muscles.
- Wall push-ups help to strengthen the chest, arms, and shoulder muscles.
- Leg Lift Exercise helps strengthen the legs, hips, and lower back muscles.
- Bridging exercise helps strengthen the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back muscles.
- Cat-Cow Stretch exercise stretches the spine and neck muscles.
- Hamstring Stretching exercise stretches the hamstrings, hips, and lower back.
- Child's Pose exercise stretches the hips, back, and legs.
- Butterfly Stretch exercise stretches the hips, inner thighs, and lower back.
- Seated Straddle Stretch exercise stretches the inner thighs and hips.
3rd trimester (29-40 weeks):
During this phase, the baby is growing rapidly, and the mother's body is undergoing significant changes. Exercise may become more challenging, and it's important to listen to your body and adjust the intensity and duration of exercise as needed. Gentle activities such as walking and swimming can help keep the mother active and maintain good cardiovascular health. During the third trimester of pregnancy, it is important to focus on exercises that help prepare the body for labor and delivery as it's important to stay active and maintain strength and flexibility to support your changing body.Here are some therapeutic exercises that can be done during the third trimester:
- Diastasis recti correction exercises are done to combat the separation of the rectus abdominal muscles during pregnancy and it shows up as a bulge that runs down the midline of the abdomen,
- Pelvic Tilts, this exercise helps strengthen your lower back and pelvic muscles.
- Kegels, Kegels help to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which support your bladder, uterus, and rectum. To do Kegels, squeeze the muscles you would use to stop urinating, hold for 5-10 seconds, then relax. Repeat 10-15 times.
- Cat-Cow Stretch, Wall Squats, and Hamstring Stretch can be continued in this phase also.
- Leg and foot stretch exercises help to relieve cramps and improve blood circulation.
- Pigeon Pose: Start on all fours, then bring one knee forward to your hand and the other leg behind you. Keep your back straight and hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides.
Exercises to avoid during pregnancy include:
Exercises that should be avoided during pregnancy include activities that have a risk of falling, such as horseback riding, ice skating, and gymnastics, as well as activities that have a risk of an abdominal injury, such as contact sports.- Scuba diving can lead to changes in pressure and nitrogen absorption, which can be harmful to the developing fetus.
- Lying on your back can cause decreased blood flow to the fetus, so exercises that involve this position should be avoided.
- Intense cardio or High-intensity cardio workouts, such as running and jumping, can cause stress on the joints and increase the risk of injury.
- Weightlifting during pregnancy can put extra strain on the back and lead to injury.
Exercising during pregnancy has many benefits, such as improving mood, increasing energy levels, reducing the risk of gestational diabetes, and helping with weight management. However, it's important to understand that the type and intensity of exercise may need to be modified throughout pregnancy to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.
Tuesday, 7 February 2023
Understanding Motor Neuron Lesions And Associated Diseases
Motor neurons are a crucial component of the nervous system, responsible for transmitting signals from the brain to the muscles. However, when these neurons suffer a lesion or injury, it can lead to debilitating conditions such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or Spinal Muscular Dystrophy (SMD). In this blog, we will explore motor neuron lesions and their impact on the patient's life.
Motor Neuron Lesions:
Lesions in motor neurons can cause problems with the control of movement and muscle function. Motor neurons are nerve cells that control muscle contractions, and damage to these cells can result in muscle weakness, paralysis, or other movement disorders. Motor neuron lesions refer to damage or destruction of the motor neurons, which are nerve cells responsible for transmitting signals from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles. This can result in muscle weakness, difficulty in movement, and loss of muscle tone. Lesions can be caused by various factors, including degenerative diseases (such as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease), trauma, infection, exposure to toxins, and others.
Treatment for motor neuron lesions typically involves managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease, and may include physiotherapy, medications, and other forms of support.
Upper Motor Neuron Lesion (UMN Lesion)
Upper motor neuron diseases refer to a group of neurological conditions that affect the upper motor neurons, which are the nerve cells in the brain that control movement and coordination. Some common examples of upper motor neuron diseases include:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Primary lateral sclerosis (PLS)
- Progressive bulbar palsy (PBP)
- Progressive muscular atrophy (PMA).
- Weakness,
- Spasticity,
- Muscle wasting,
- Increased muscle tone,
- Hyperreflexia,
- Problems with coordination movement and coordination, etc.
- Muscle tone test: Evaluates the resistance of a limb to passive movement, looking for increased muscle tone.
- Reflex test: Tests for hyperreflexia, which is an exaggerated knee-jerk response.
- Clonus test: Looks for rhythmic muscular contractions caused by sudden stretching.
- Babinski sign: Tests for the presence of an abnormal reflex that involves dorsiflexion (upward movement) of the big toe and fanning of the other toes, which is a classic sign of an upper motor lesion.
Lower Motor Neuron Lesion (LMN Lesion)
Lower motor neuron diseases refer to a group of disorders that affect the lower motor neurons in the spinal cord and brainstem. Some examples of lower motor neuron diseases include:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)
- Poliomyelitis (Polio)
- Spinal cord injury
- Peripheral neuropathy.
- Muscle weakness and atrophy,
- Hypotonia (reduced muscle tone),
- Fasciculations (twitching of individual muscle fibres),
- Decreased or absent deep tendon reflexes (such as knee or ankle reflexes),
- Muscle cramps or spasms, etc.
Testing for muscle weakness: The strength of specific muscle groups can be tested by asking the patient to perform certain movements (e.g., lifting a limb against resistance)
Testing for hypotonia: The muscle tone can be assessed by passively moving the limb and observing the resistance offered by the muscles
Testing for fasciculations: The presence of fasciculations can be detected by visually examining the muscles or by palpation (feeling the muscle with the hands)
Testing for reflexes: Deep tendon reflexes can be tested by tapping a tendon with a reflex hammer and observing the response of the muscle.
It is important to note that these signs and tests are not specific to LMN lesions and may also occur with other conditions. A comprehensive clinical examination, imaging studies, and other tests may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis of an LMN lesion.
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of patients with motor neuron lesions by helping to reduce symptoms, improve their mobility, and thus increase the overall quality of life.
Walking Abnormalities | Things You Need To Know About Your Walking Pattern
WHAT IS GAIT?
Gait is the way the person walks, how he moves his limbs to get from one place to another. The gait cycle has 7 stages. And these stages should occur in succession with each other.
The body muscles should work to counteract the external force of the body weight connecting with the ground, the steps should be even, and the length of each step should be appropriate for the height and weight.
Normal gait requires good coordination because, for a brief moment between each step, the weight rests solely on one leg. It happens so fast that the person may not notice it, but while one leg swings forward, the other leg is holding the person up. If the gait is normal, the person won't feel like he is losing his balance when this happens. Similarly, with a normal gait, the person should be able to walk on a flat surface, with ease, and not have to think about how to place each step.
Gait Abnormalities:
Any abnormality in gait causes deviation from a normal walking pattern, which can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions. Common symptoms of gait abnormalities include limping, difficulty walking, pain in the legs or feet, and a decrease in overall mobility. Gait abnormalities can be caused by injuries, neurological disorders, degenerative diseases, and other underlying health conditions. Early identification and treatment of gait abnormalities are crucial to prevent further deterioration of mobility and improve the overall quality of life. Physiotherapy, orthotic devices, and surgery are some of the common treatment options for gait abnormalities.
Pathological gait can be caused by a wide range of conditions, such as neurological disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, and certain medical conditions, such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and peripheral neuropathy.
Hemiplegic Gait
Hemiplegic gait is a type of gait disorder that occurs in individuals who have suffered a stroke or brain injury. The gait is characterized by weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, leading to an uneven, shuffling, or dragging type of walk. This can also lead to difficulty with balance and coordination. Physiotherapy and other forms of rehabilitation can help improve hemiplegic gait, but the degree of improvement depends on the extent of the brain injury or stroke.
Diplegic Gait (Spastic Gait)
Diplegic gait is a type of gait disorder characterized by spasticity (stiffness and tightness) in the muscles of the legs, typically caused by damage to the brain or spinal cord. This can result in a "scissor gait" where the legs cross over each other while walking, as well as difficulty with balance and coordination. Diplegic gait is commonly seen in individuals with cerebral palsy, a neurological disorder that affects muscle control and movement. Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects muscle tone, movement, and coordination. Individuals with cerebral palsy may have difficulty with balance and coordination, leading to a characteristic "spastic" gait. Treatment options may include physical therapy, medications, and surgery to help improve muscle function and mobility.
Neuropathic Gait (Steppage Gait, Equine Gait)
Neuropathic gait refers to changes in walking patterns and movements caused by damage or disease to the nervous system. This can include conditions such as peripheral neuropathy, which affects the nerves in the limbs, or spinal cord injury, which can disrupt the communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Some common signs of neuropathic gait include foot drop, in which the foot drags on the ground while walking, and a high-stepping gait, in which the affected limb is lifted higher than normal to clear the ground. Other symptoms can include muscle weakness, balance problems, and muscle spasms. Unilateral, causes include L5 radiculopathy and peroneal nerve palsy and L5 radiculopathy, whereas bilateral, causes include Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and other peripheral neuropathies including those associated with uncontrolled diabetes. Peripheral neuropathy affects the peripheral nerves and can lead to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the feet, making it difficult to walk. Treatment for neuropathic gait may include physiotherapy, orthotic devices, and medications to manage pain and other symptoms.
Myopathic Gait (Waddling Gait)
A myopathic gait is a walking pattern that is characteristic of individuals with muscle disorders, such as myopathies. Myopathic gait can be characterized by muscle weakness, difficulty initiating movement, foot drop, and a high-stepping or cane-like gait. The gait abnormalities seen in myopathies are caused by the abnormal structure, function, or metabolism of muscle fibers. Physiotherapy and assistive devices such as canes or braces can help improve gait and mobility in individuals with myopathies.
Choreiform Gait (Hyperkinetic Gait)
Choreiform gait is a type of abnormal movement disorder characterized by irregular, jerky, or unpredictable movements of the limbs and trunk. It is often seen in patients with Huntington's disease, a genetic disorder that affects the brain and central nervous system. Other neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease and dystonia can also cause choreiform gait. It is typically diagnosed through physical examination and neurologic testing. Treatment options may include medication, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy.
Ataxic Gait(Cerebellar)
Ataxic gait is commonly seen in cerebellar disease, this gait is characterized by clumsy, staggering movements with a wide-based gait. While standing, the patient's body may swagger back and forth and from side to side, known as titubation. Patients are not able to walk from heel to toe or in a straight line and have a gait of acute alcohol intoxication that resembles the gait of cerebellar disease (ataxic gait).
Ataxic gait, also known as an unsteady gait, is a type of walking pattern characterized by a lack of coordination and balance. Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system and individuals with MS may have an ataxic gait.
Parkinsonian Gait (Festinating Gait, Propulsive Gait)
Parkinson's disease is a progressive condition of the nervous system that affects the body's movement. Individuals with Parkinson's may have difficulty with initiating movement, leading to a characteristic "shuffling" gait. They may also experience freezing of gait, where they are unable to move their feet despite the intention to walk.
Parkinsonian gait refers to the distinctive way of walking that is commonly seen in individuals with Parkinson's disease. This type of gait is characterized by several features, including small, shuffling steps, a tendency to take shorter steps than normal, a stooped posture, and a decreased arm swing. These symptoms are caused by the degeneration of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, which leads to a loss of muscle control and coordination. Treatment for Parkinsonian gait typically involves the use of medications such as levodopa and dopamine agonists, as well as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and deep brain stimulation.
Sensory Gait
Sensory gait refers to how the nervous system processes and uses sensory information from the environment to control and coordinate movement during walking or running. This can include information from the eyes, ears, proprioceptors (sensors in the joints and muscles), and skin receptors. Sensory gait can be affected by various neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease, peripheral neuropathies, and other conditions that affect the nervous system.
Gait pathologies can greatly impact an individual's quality of life and ability to perform daily activities. Physiotherapy, 0ccupational therapy, and medication can help to improve symptoms and may allow individuals to regain some of their mobility.
It is important to consult a physiotherapist if you suspect you may have a gait pathology. They will be able to perform a thorough examination and may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment
Abnormal walking patterns can have a variety of causes and can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. It is important to seek professional help if you suspect you or someone you know may have an abnormal walking pattern. Physiotherapy, orthotics, and other interventions can help improve gait and reduce the risk of falls and other complications. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and stretching can also help prevent abnormal walking patterns from developing. Remember, abnormal walking patterns are not normal, and it's important to take them seriously and address them as soon as possible.