Special Populations

Dementia is a group of conditions characterized by memory loss, impaired judgment, difficulty with problem solving, language, visual perception, ability to focus and control emotions, among others. Daily function is significantly impacted. Treatment or intervention selection can depend on the specific type of dementia but they all have a strong focus of improving mobility and quality of life. Physical therapy can benefit a patient who has dementia by decreasing their risk of falling through balance and strength training, gait and transfer training, and improving overall daily function and participation by incorporating activities they enjoy. There is no cure but the progression can be decreased. Click here for more information on treatment strategies for dementia.

A stroke happens when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, causing brain damage. There are a few different types of strokes (ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, and transient ischemic attack) and varying complications and recoveries. This depends on several factors, such as type of stroke, area of the brain damaged, how long it took to get medical help, patient age, etc. A stroke is a medical emergency. Symptoms of stroke include trouble walking, speaking, and understanding, as well as paralysis or numbness of the face, arm, or leg. Acting F.A.S.T. (Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call emergency services) is key to receiving proper treatment. It is important for people to be able to recognize the symptoms of stroke and immediately seek emergency medical attention upon symptom recognition. Early treatment with medications like tPA (clot buster) can minimize brain damage. Other treatments focus on limiting complications and preventing additional strokes. Physical therapy can help by addressing the physical deficits/impairments following stroke for recovery and prevention for future strokes. This can include strength training, neuromuscular re-education, balance training, gait and transfer training, spasticity reduction, and more. Physical therapy can help stroke survivors in restoring their prior level of function and improve their overall quality of life and health. Click here for stories and information on stroke recovery from the APTA. Other sources include:

https://www.physiotherapy-treatment.com/stroke-physical-therapy.html

https://www.neuropt.org/consumer-info/neurologic-disorders-index/stroke

https://www.stroke.org/en/life-after-stroke/stroke-rehab/rehab-therapy-after-a-stroke

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/rehabilitation-after-stroke