Neurological physiotherapy (KG ZNS)

What is neurological physiotherapy?

Neurological physiotherapy is a form of active movement therapy. It aims at relearning and internalizing movement sequences that have been lost or are only possible to a limited extent due to a neurological dysfunction by means of targeted repetitions. The therapy is based on the fact that the nervous system has a lifelong ability to learn. Neurological physiotherapy may only be carried out by physiotherapists, speech therapists and occupational therapists who have been specially trained for this purpose, on the basis of a doctor’s prescription. Often, several professional fields work together in a complementary manner to ensure learning success.

How does neurological physiotherapy work?

The aim of neurological physiotherapy is to enable patients to live as independently as possible and to return as closely as possible to their former quality of life. In the best case, reintegration into everyday life as it was before the disorder is successful. Greater control of posture and movement with improvement of balance play a central role in this. Normalized mobility and functional ability should also prevent or reduce consequential damage and pain.

What is done in neurological physiotherapy?

Neurological physiotherapy is about rebuilding damaged nerve fibers and synapses. Central to this is the repetition of certain movement sequences. Due to the very different complaints, the therapy plan must be determined individually in each case. The focus of the compilation of exercises is on activities that play a role in personal everyday life. The training is not limited to the session in the practice, but is also integrated into the daily routine around the clock. It is important for success that the patient works as independently as possible and that the therapist’s support is limited to what is absolutely necessary.

When to use neurological physiotherapy?

Neurological physiotherapy is a suitable therapy for all damages of the central nervous system. This includes the brain and spinal cord. Common problems for which neurological physiotherapy is used include disorders in:

• strength development of the musculature
• Sensory perception
• Balance
• Postural control
• Movement control
• Speech
• Speech
• Swallowing
• Memory
• Attention

Common causes of such disorders include:

• Stroke
• Craniocerebral trauma
• Brain hemorrhage
• Parkinson’s disease