Role of Exercise Physiology in a Multidisciplinary Approach to Neuro Rehabilitation

Role of Exercise Physiology in Multidisciplinary Approach to Neuro Rehabilitation

It is estimated that up to one billion people worldwide are affected by neurological disorders such as stroke (CVA), Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury and dementia1 .

Once a patient is diagnosed with a neurological disorder, they will often be referred to a rehabilitation service to receive multidisciplinary care. The goal of neuro rehabilitation is to work with patients and empower them to reach an optimal level of function and regain their independence. As an exercise physiologist my work is centred on providing exercisebased interventions that help patients increase functional capacity and regain independence. These interventions are guided by evidence, look to safely increase physical activity and support patients as they make lasting behaviour and lifestyle modifications.

At Royal Rehab, I work closely with patients to help them achieve their goals. Much of this is focused on reducing the impact their neurological symptoms have on their independence and their ability to perform everyday activities. Through exercise, we look to improve function by focusing on different aspects of physical health and wellbeing. This helps to improve a range of neurological deficits that can occur. These include, but are not limited to:

» Improving balance, coordination and proprioception (the sense of selfmovement and body position)

» Increasing muscular strength and endurance

» Increasing cardiovascular fitness and aerobic capacity

» Improving gait and mobility

Exercise has also been proven to facilitate neuroplastic change within the brain, which is crucial for any patient with a neurological disorder. Working with neurological patients is very rewarding as you become involved in their progress. Seeing them regain control of their independence, helping them to achieve their goals and improve their function is truly inspiring.

1 https://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2007/pr04/en/

Luke Maddalena BExSc, MCEP, AEP is a Senior Exercise Physiologist and Day Rehab Coordinator at Royal Rehab.

For more information about RRPH’s Day Rehab program, call 02 9808 0522.

235 Morrison Road, Ryde NSW 2112 02 9808 9222 | royalrehab.com.au