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Physiotherapy for ALS & MS Patients

Increase Your Activity and Independence With Specialized Physiotherapy Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) and MS (Multiple Sclerosis) are two conditions that can limit your physical capabilities but can benefit massively from physiotherapy.

 

With Get Right Physio by your side, you’ll have the opportunity to work to combat symptoms and decelerate the advancement of both ALS and MS by improving your mobility, posture, strength, and balance.

 

Learn how you can better your everyday life through physiotherapy by setting up an appointment with one of Get Right Physio’s therapists, who are experienced in assisting ALS and MS clients throughout the Greater Toronto Area.

What Is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease in which the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord break down, destroying the function of the body’s muscles. Conversely, Multiple Sclerosis is a condition where the immune system attacks the fibre protecting your nerves. While neither is curable, ALS is more likely to be fatal and can lead to paralysis.

 

The early symptoms of each disease can be similar, such as weakened muscles, trouble walking, muscle spasms, and fatigue. As each illness progresses, symptoms begin to differ significantly. Clients with ALS experience more physical deterioration, while MS patients tend to struggle with impaired vision, poor bladder control and cognitive difficulties like memory loss.

How Do We Treat ALS and MS Through Physiotherapy?

After you receive your diagnosis of ALS or MS, your doctor will explain your treatment options to you, outlining the most effective approaches. Provided your doctor confirms that you’re a suitable candidate for physical therapy, you can arrange a consultation with one of our therapists to discuss your needs.

 

Your first session will involve several assessments, the results from which will be used to form a customized treatment plan for your physiotherapy. ALS and MS clients may undergo different tests, as your therapist checks for muscle strength, coordination, ability to carry out basic tasks, respiratory function, and mobility.

 

While you move through your treatment programme, you’ll work on exercises and techniques that may change according to your progress and needs. Everything from fine motor activities to balance training may be included in your plan, though specific movements will depend on your diagnosis.

 

Physiotherapy for ALS and MS strives to achieve the following objectives:

 

  • Maintain muscle strength
  • Promote safe mobility
  • Minimize the impact of the condition on everyday life
  • Improve balance and flexibility

Benefits of Physiotherapy for Clients With ALS and MS

Physiotherapy is advantageous for clients with ALS and MS for various reasons, with the primary benefit being a better quality of life and a slower disease progression. There are many other benefits, which include the following:

ALS:

  • As you work to retain your muscle tone and function and better your balance, you lower your risk of falling or acquiring an injury. Sustaining an injury can lead to further complications and a more rapid decline.
  • Physiotherapy will provide you with the skills to find new ways of achieving daily tasks as your condition changes, such as using assistive devices to help you maintain your regular routine for as long as possible.

MS:

  • Through specific exercises, you can reduce the frequency or severity of muscle spasms and reestablish bladder control, giving you a greater sense of control over your symptoms.
  • Relapses are commonplace among clients with MS. Physiotherapy assists you in getting back on track after a relapse by restoring the function of your muscles.

Frequently Asked Questions

A blend of exercises is used to treat ALS with physiotherapy, which differs based on the stage of the disease you’re at. Below are some examples of what clients could work on:

 

  • Aerobic (e.g. walking, swimming, cycling)
  • Strength training (e.g. bicep curls, leg lifts)
  • Balance (e.g. marching, one-legged stands)
  • Stretching (e.g. knee flexion, hamstring stretch)
  • Breathing (e.g. breath stacking, assisted coughing)

The stage of ALS you’re at will determine how frequently you should attend physiotherapy sessions, and each client will have a different schedule to follow.

For example, some clients will attend weekly sessions in the house or condo after an initial diagnosis to learn management strategies, while some will increase their regularity as their condition progresses, and they may need greater assistance in a hospital, Long-term care facility or retirement home.

As you work with your therapist, you’ll be able to find a routine that best caters to your requirements.

Assistive devices are prevalent among clients with MS and become increasingly necessary as the disease advances. Leg braces, crutches, canes, wheelchairs, and walking frames are examples of popular assistive devices. Your therapist will advise you on which aids would be the most practical for you, which may change over time.

Clients with MS can also make lifestyle changes that support physiotherapy treatment and their overall well-being. Some examples include:

 

  • Gentle and regular movement to retain mobility and flexibility and reduce symptoms of fatigue
  • Completing therapist-approved strength and balance exercises at home
  • Creating a consistent sleep schedule
  • Avoid extreme temperatures that can worsen symptoms
  • Quitting smoking

Slow the Progression of ALS and MS With the Help of Get Right Physio's Effective Physiotherapy Treatments

Unfortunately, there’s no cure for either ALS or MS at present, but physiotherapy can afford you the opportunity to maintain your strength and mobility for as long as possible, which contributes to your independence and self-esteem.

 

Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with ALS or MS or are supporting a loved one to find the right treatment for their condition, Get Right Physio will provide you with the help you need. Our expert therapists use their experience and knowledge to ensure each client receives personalized care.

 

Book a consultation with a highly qualified therapist from Get Right Physio and make the first steps towards a better quality of life today.

Step 1

Contact us at:

647-370-5162
hello@getrightphysio.com
Complete intake form.

Our intake specialists are waiting to assist you.

Step 2

Let us learn about you:

Speak to our client coordinator so we can understand your unique circumstances to match you with the right therapist to help you reach your goals.

Step 3

Our team comes to you!

We will book you in within 24-48 hours at a time that works best for you. Our therapist shows up at your door with everything needed to get you closer to your health, mobility and client-centred goals!

Contact Us To Book Appointment!

*Extended health benefits can be used for in-home physiotherapy

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