It is well recognised that physiotherapy can be beneficial in the recovery of functional weakness. Patients with functional weakness often have variability in their symptoms which may appear to be worsened by activity. As a result people avoid activity and become deconditioned which makes the situation worse.
Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment of your needs and will devise an individualised treatment programme which will gradually assist you to increase your activity levels and return to normal everyday activities.
Physiotherapy treatment may include:
- A graded exercise programme to increase your strength and exercise tolerance
- Facilitation of normal movement patterns
- Exercises to reduce stiffness in joints and muscles as a result of inactivity
- Gait re-education and provision of walking aids to improve the quality of your walking and maximise your safety and independence
- Exercises to improve your balance and coordination
- Home assessment if appropriate to identify equipment that may assist you with everyday activities
- Involvement of your family or carers to advise on ways to assist you in achieving independence
- Referral to Occupational Therapy or Speech Therapy if appropriate
- Hydrotherapy treatment if appropriate to help work on your mobility and strength
- Advice regarding management of fatigue
Many people with functional weakness make significant improvements following a period of physiotherapy. Recovery is a gradual process and people with functional weakness need to accept that there may be bumps along the road to recovery. Our physiotherapists will give you the support and reassurance throughout your journey to enable you to maximise your quality of life.
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