Neurological rehabilitation is a multi-disciplinary approach to treating diseases or injuries within the nervous system. This modality benefits patients in several ways, including allowing them to build up functionality, gain more control of their symptoms, and boost their self-esteem. Richmond University Medical Center in Staten Island, New York, provides rehabilitation services and more to patients in the surrounding area. Here, you can learn more about the benefits of neurological rehab from the award-winning medical team at the Richmond University Medical Center.
Conditions Treated by Neurological Rehabilitation
The nervous system consists of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, all of which play a vital role in bodily functions. Nervous system diseases or injuries can impact body parts, cognitive ability, or mental health. Therefore, neurological rehabilitation is used for patients with conditions such as:
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease occurs when brain cells that produce dopamine, a chemical that communicates with nerve and muscle cells, stop functioning or die. This causes parts of the brain to deteriorate, resulting in symptoms such as:
- Decreased blinking
- Issues swallowing
- Posture problems
- Slower movement
- Stiffness
- Tremors while muscles are resting
Currently, Parkinson’s disease is not curable, and as the brain continues to deteriorate, a patient will experience their condition worsening. Through rehabilitation and treatment, however, patients can maximize their abilities to their fullest.
Stroke
A stroke can take place either when:
- A blocked artery prevents blood from getting to part of the brain
- When blood enters brain tissue or areas around the brain
Someone experiencing a stroke may suddenly have trouble speaking or understanding words, paralysis in part(s) of the body, or trouble with vision or walking. Receiving quick medical attention is crucial to stroke treatment. After patients leave the hospital, recovery often involves therapeutics such as neurological rehabilitation.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, better known as ALS, is a disease of the nerve cells within the brain and spinal cord. It develops when cells called motor neurons die, disrupting how the brain processes and controls muscle movement. Patients diagnosed with ALS eventually lose their ability to eat, talk, move, or breathe. While ALS is not currently curable and its progression cannot be stopped, treatments help patients manage their symptoms.
Brain and/or Spinal Cord Injuries
Anyone dealing with a brain or spinal cord condition/injury should seek treatment through neurological rehabilitation. Examples of these conditions include:
- Brain aneurysm or tumor
- Cerebral hemorrhage
- Epilepsy
- Herniated disc
- Multiple sclerosis
What Neurological Rehabilitation Programs Look Like
Physicians and other healthcare professionals will work with patients, their loved ones, and other caregivers, designing an appropriate neurological rehabilitation plan to address their needs. First, the patient will receive a cognitive and physical exam to help physicians determine what the focus of the treatment plan should be. Initial sessions may concentrate on routine tasks, working to reduce pain, or helping a patient live a fulfilling life despite their condition. The treatment team may then increase the volume of activity or its intensity, depending on the needs of a patient and what they can do.
Some patients may complete their rehabilitation after a set number of sessions, while others may need to participate in sessions for the rest of their lives. Regardless, many neurological rehabilitation plans will incorporate professionals using concepts from three disciplines of therapy:
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists help patients perform routine, day-to-day tasks, from cooking to dressing and everything in between. They will work to improve arm and hand strength and introduce activities for a patient to redevelop their memory and thinking abilities.
Physical Therapy
A patient may work with a physical therapist to perform exercises that improve their balance, motion, and ability to keep them from falling. Some physical therapists will assist a patientas they prepare to return to work, help bolster weakened muscles through electrical stimulation, or offer guidance to caregivers.
Speech-Language Therapy
Patients struggling to speak, swallow, or understand words may meet with a speech-language therapist to work on these communication skills. These therapists may also give their patients exercises or activities to work on at home. Patients should follow whatever activities a therapist assigns them. While they may feel improvement during and following a session, keeping up their improved state at home reduces the risks of regression.
Learn About Neurological Rehabilitation From Richmond University Medical Center
While neurological conditions are serious medical issues, patients should feel encouraged that they can adjust and adapt through neurological rehabilitation. Receiving neurological rehabilitation allows them to improve their livelihoods and well-being. Richmond University Medical Center offers these services at our Comprehensive Rehabilitation Center in Staten Island, NY. Contact us today to learn more about how we apply neurological rehabilitation concepts to the different treatments we provide.
