<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>vestibular disorders Archives - WWSPT.Com</title> <atom:link href="https://wwspt.com/category/vestibular-disorders/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://wwspt.com/category/vestibular-disorders/</link> <description>Healing, Function, Recovery, Health</description> <lastBuildDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2024 14:19:35 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2</generator> <site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">215146180</site> <item> <title>Understanding Vestibular Agnosia: A Comprehensive Overview</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/understanding-vestibular-agnosia-a-comprehensive-overview/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/understanding-vestibular-agnosia-a-comprehensive-overview/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 10 Jun 2024 18:19:45 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV]]></category> <category><![CDATA[brain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[coordination movement problems]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Epley maneuver]]></category> <category><![CDATA[inner ear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[motion perception]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Neurological condition]]></category> <category><![CDATA[neurology]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Agnosia (VA)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4419</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction Vestibular agnosia is a rare and intriguing neurological condition that affects the brain’s ability to process vestibular information, which is critical for balance and spatial orientation. Understanding vestibular agnosia is crucial for medical professionals, researchers, and those affected despite its rarity. This blog aims to provide a detailed overview of vestibular agnosia, including its […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/understanding-vestibular-agnosia-a-comprehensive-overview/">Understanding Vestibular Agnosia: A Comprehensive Overview</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Introduction</strong></p> <p>Vestibular agnosia is a rare and intriguing neurological condition that affects the brain’s ability to process vestibular information, which is critical for balance and spatial orientation. Understanding vestibular agnosia is crucial for medical professionals, researchers, and those affected despite its rarity. This blog aims to provide a detailed overview of vestibular agnosia, including its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.</p> <p><strong>What is Vestibular Agnosia?</strong></p> <p>Vestibular agnosia is a neurological disorder characterized by the inability to recognize or process vestibular stimuli. The vestibular system in the inner ear plays a fundamental role in maintaining balance, spatial orientation, and coordinating movement. Individuals with vestibular agnosia have intact vestibular function but cannot consciously perceive or interpret vestibular information, leading to significant difficulties in everyday life.</p> <p><strong>Symptoms of Vestibular Agnosia</strong></p> <p>The symptoms of vestibular agnosia can vary widely but often include:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Balance Issues</strong>: Difficulty maintaining balance, especially in low-visibility conditions.</li> <li><strong>Spatial Disorientation</strong>: Challenges in navigating through space or identifying one’s body position in relation to the environment.</li> <li><strong>Motion Perception Problems</strong>: Inability to perceive or respond appropriately to movement, such as feeling unstable when walking or turning.</li> <li><strong>Vertigo</strong>: Sensations of spinning or dizziness without an apparent cause.</li> <li><strong>Coordination Problems</strong>: Difficulty coordinating movements, leading to clumsiness or frequent falls.</li> </ul> <p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Agnosia-Science-Direct.png" alt="" width="800" height="530" /></p> <p><strong>Causes and Risk Factors</strong></p> <p>The precise cause of vestibular agnosia is not fully understood. Still, it is typically associated with damage or dysfunction in the brain areas responsible for processing vestibular information, such as the parietal lobes or the temporoparietal junction. Potential causes and risk factors include:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Brain Injury</strong>: Trauma to the head can disrupt vestibular pathways.</li> <li><strong>Neurological Disorders</strong>: Conditions such as stroke, cerebral small vessel disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s disease, or brain tumors can affect vestibular processing.</li> <li><strong>Infections</strong>: Certain infections can damage the brain regions involved in vestibular perception.</li> <li><strong>Genetic Factors</strong>: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing vestibular agnosia, although this is still under investigation.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Diagnosis</strong></p> <p>Diagnosing vestibular agnosia involves a comprehensive evaluation by a Neurologist or a Vestibular Physical Therapist specializing in vestibular disorders. The diagnostic process typically includes:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Clinical History</strong>: Detailed assessment of symptoms and medical history.</li> <li><strong>Physical Examination</strong>: Tests to evaluate balance, coordination, and spatial orientation.</li> <li>Positional testing for <strong>Benign paroxysmal positional Vertigo</strong> (BPPV)</li> <li><strong>Vestibular Testing</strong>: Specialized tests such as electronystagmography (ENG) or videonystagmography (VNG) to assess vestibular function, Video head thrust Testing(vHIT)</li> <li><strong>Neuroimaging</strong>: MRI or CT scans to identify any brain lesions or abnormalities.</li> </ul> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wendy_examining_patient_Micromedical__Infrared_Goggles-copy.png" alt="" width="801" height="556" /></p> <p><strong>Treatment and Management</strong></p> <p>Currently, there is no cure for vestibular agnosia, but several treatment approaches can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)</strong>: A customized exercise program to improve balance and spatial orientation. Provide treatment to resolve BPPV</li> <li><strong>Medications</strong>: Drugs to alleviate symptoms like vertigo and dizziness.</li> <li><strong>Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)</strong>: Psychological support to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological impact of the condition.</li> <li><strong>Assistive Devices</strong>: Tools such as canes or balance aids to enhance safety and mobility.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Conclusion</strong></p> <p>Vestibular agnosia, while rare, presents significant challenges for those affected. We can enhance our understanding and management of this complex condition through continued research and advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic techniques. Healthcare professionals must remain vigilant in recognizing the signs of vestibular agnosia to provide timely and effective support for their patients.</p> <p>Raising awareness and improving education about vestibular agnosia can contribute to better outcomes and quality of life for individuals living with this condition. Suppose you suspect that you or a loved one may be experiencing symptoms of vestibular agnosia. In that case, seeking professional medical advice for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate management is essential. Contact <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT</a> for additional information on Vestibular agnosia and/or to schedule an evaluation,</p> <p>Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.</p> <p>(215) 489-3234</p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/understanding-vestibular-agnosia-a-comprehensive-overview/">Understanding Vestibular Agnosia: A Comprehensive Overview</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/understanding-vestibular-agnosia-a-comprehensive-overview/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4419</post-id> </item> <item> <title>About Vestibular Agnosia (VA)</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/about-vestibular-agnosia-va/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/about-vestibular-agnosia-va/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 05 Jun 2024 23:15:41 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[brain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Agnosia (VA)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4417</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Vestibular Agnosia (VA)is a newly recognized condition in the brain that results in loss of vertigo perception and postural imbalance. This means there is a disconnect in the brain’s electrical wiring; the white matter tissue has reduced transmission, and therefore, the brain doesn’t recognize dizziness symptoms. VA can cause vertigo and balance problems, spatial and […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/about-vestibular-agnosia-va/">About Vestibular Agnosia (VA)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Vestibular Agnosia (VA)is a newly recognized condition in the brain that results in loss of vertigo perception and postural imbalance. This means there is a disconnect in the brain’s electrical wiring; the white matter tissue has reduced transmission, and therefore, the brain doesn’t recognize dizziness symptoms. VA can cause vertigo and balance problems, spatial and motion perception issues, and coordination problems.</p> <p> </p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Vestibular-BPPV.png" alt="" width="800" height="533" /></p> <p>In the case of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), the brain doesn’t acknowledge vertigo-spinning symptoms. However, patients can still have a postural imbalance that can be associated with a fall. BPPV is associated with an increased incidence of falls, especially in our elderly population. Patients with BPPV normally have an attack of vertigo and feeling off balance. Patients with VA who may have BPPV don’t get that warning spinning and have sudden falls or changes in postural control because the brain isn’t providing the proper signals to interpret vestibular input and prevent a fall.</p> <p>To rule out BPPV, it is important to get a thorough Vestibular evaluation on anyone with sudden falls. Though the perception of vertigo is not present in these patients, the neurological response of nystagmus is apparent on evaluation, and your Vestibular Therapist can effectively treat it with an Epley maneuver in the same way normal BPPV is treated.</p> <p>Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.</p> <p>(215) 489 -3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/about-vestibular-agnosia-va/">About Vestibular Agnosia (VA)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/about-vestibular-agnosia-va/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4417</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Essential Physical Therapy Screening!</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/essential-physical-therapy-screening/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/essential-physical-therapy-screening/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Gregory Synnestvedt PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 04 Apr 2024 17:49:56 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Crystals and Canals]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Doylestown PA]]></category> <category><![CDATA[falls]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy Screening]]></category> <category><![CDATA[SAFE act]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[World Health Organization]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4366</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The Importance of Physical Therapy Screening for Risk of Falling and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) Falling can happen at any age and cause a person significant injury. For someone over 65 years of age, falls are especially concerning. The World Health Organization recognizes falls as the second most common cause of unintentional death in […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/essential-physical-therapy-screening/">Essential Physical Therapy Screening!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Importance of Physical Therapy Screening for Risk of Falling and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Falling can happen at any age and cause a person significant injury. For someone over 65 years of age, falls are especially concerning. The World Health Organization recognizes falls as the second most common cause of unintentional death in the world (after car accident-related injuries) and states that<strong> “older people have the highest risk of death or serious injury arising from a fall, and the risk increases with age.”</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Physical therapists have long worked with people to figure out what is causing falls or balance problems and how to best reduce the risk of falling and improve balance. The best way to reduce injuries related to falling is to prevent it in the first place. Increased fall prevention awareness in recent decades has led to important new legislation known as the Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly Act, or SAFE Act.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The SAFE Act includes a provision that primary care providers refer their patients to physical therapy for fall prevention evaluation and services if the person has fallen in the last year. Recent economic analysis of how health care is used has shown the cost-effectiveness of physical therapists’ care for fall-related services, mainly through reduced hospital and emergency room admissions.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> More than saving Medicare money, this bill is about improving people’s care and helping prevent injuries and death.</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Dr.-Greg-Synnestvedt-Testing.png" alt="" width="796" height="517" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Referral to Physical Therapy for fall-related services is ideal because physical therapists are uniquely qualified to evaluate and treat the most common causes of falling. Balance problems can have many contributing factors, including changes in vestibular function, vision, and cognition, decreased muscle power, reduced endurance, decreased sensation in the feet and joints, and changes in coordination. Physical therapists are trained to evaluate these areas, screen for these issues, and analyze how someone walks and moves in different situations.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A <strong>vestibular physical therapist</strong> is particularly well suited to screen for benign paroxysmal vertigo, an issue that can both cause falls and be caused by falls. BPPV is an issue where tiny calcium carbonate crystals that are meant to be in one part of the vestibular system in the inner ear come loose and go into one of the semi-circular canals, which are little tubes that sense turning head movements</span></p> <p>_____________________________________</p> <p>1 https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/falls<br /> 2 https://www.apta.org/news/2024/03/12/falls-legislation-safe-act<br /> 3 https://www.valueofpt.com/</p> <p>_____________________________________</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When the crystals move in the canals, they stimulate the inner ear and signal to the brain that the head is turning, even though it isn’t. This typically creates a false sense of movement, usually a spinning sensation called vertigo.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It turns out that not everyone who has BPPV experiences vertigo or even a dizziness sensation. Someone with BPPV may feel more off balance with movement due to the crystals being out of place but report no dizziness. When we test them with video goggles, however, we will see the classic involuntary eye movements, called nystagmus, used to diagnose BPPV accurately. Treating their BPPV through positioning maneuvers that guide the crystals out of the canals will help their balance improve.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A new study from a specialty falls and balance clinic in Melbourne, Australia, found that 1 in 4 patients they saw for falls risk who had BPPV had no symptoms of dizziness!</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> This is a great example of why we screen people for BPPV when there is a sudden change in balance function or a recent fall–even if they do not complain of dizziness.</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Do-You-Suffer-From-dizziness-copy.png" alt="" width="639" height="800" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Of course, if a patient feels dizzy, this dizziness can also lead to a fall. Treating someone’s dizziness, understandably, will help reduce their risk of falling. This has now been supported by large-scale research. A 2023 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that using physical therapy decreased fall risk in patients in the US who had dizziness.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> The study found that 7% of adults being evaluated for dizziness had a fall resulting in a medical encounter within a year of experiencing dizziness. Receiving physical therapy within 3 months of the initial dizziness visit was associated with an 86% decrease in the odds of falling.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This underscores the value of physical therapy care—particularly by a physical therapist with training and expertise in treating dizziness—for those who have fallen or feel at risk of falling or for those who are experiencing dizziness. If your healthcare provider recommends you seek physical therapy care due to a fall, following through with the therapy is in your best interest. And if you are dizzy, you can reduce your risk of falling by receiving physical therapy. The physical therapists at WWSPT would be happy to help you reduce your risk of falling and feel more confident in your balance again. </span></p> <p>Dr. Greg Synnestvedt, PT, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> (215) 489-3234</p> <p>_____________________________________</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> 4 </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Susan Hyland, Lyndon J. Hawke & Nicholas F. Taylor (2024) Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo without dizziness is common in people presenting to falls clinics, Disability and Rehabilitation, DOI: </span><a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2024.2320271"><span style="font-weight: 400;">10.1080/09638288.2024.2320271 </span></a></p> <p>5<span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Marmor S, Karaca-Mandic P, Adams ME. Use of Physical Therapy and Subsequent Falls Among Patients With Dizziness in the US. </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg.</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> 2023;149(12):1083–1090. doi:10.1001/jamaoto.2023.2840 </span></p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/essential-physical-therapy-screening/">Essential Physical Therapy Screening!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/essential-physical-therapy-screening/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4366</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Physical Therapy Technology and Research Combined Sections Meeting (CSM)</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-technology-and-research-combined-sections-meeting-csm/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-technology-and-research-combined-sections-meeting-csm/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 11 Mar 2024 18:02:32 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[acute care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Combined Sections Metting (CMS)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[long COVID]]></category> <category><![CDATA[neurology]]></category> <category><![CDATA[orthopedic treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Pelvic Floor]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VR]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4356</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>I was fortunate enough to be able to attend the Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) in Boston, Massachusetts, last month. CSM is a yearly conference held over multiple days where thousands of physical therapists worldwide meet and share the latest technology and research. Educational sessions last about two hours each, with endless daily poster presentations. Topics […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-technology-and-research-combined-sections-meeting-csm/">Physical Therapy Technology and Research Combined Sections Meeting (CSM)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I was fortunate enough to be able to attend the Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) in Boston, Massachusetts, last month. CSM is a yearly conference held over multiple days where thousands of physical therapists worldwide meet and share the latest technology and research.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/CMS_Mtg_Classroom.jpg " alt="" width="640" height="800" /></p> <p>Educational sessions last about two hours each, with endless daily poster presentations. Topics included orthopedics, pelvic floor, acute care, neurology, and vestibular. I attended various vestibular courses over the two days I was there. I sat in lectures held by some of the most innovative heads of the vestibular world, like Dr. Susan Whitney (University of Pittsburgh), Dr. Barry Semongal (Imperial College London), Dr. Janet Helmeinski (Rosalind Franklin University) and Dr. Janene Holmberg (Intermountain Healthcare out of Salt Lake, Utah).</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/CMS_Boston_2024.jpg" alt="" width="619" height="800" /></p> <p>They spoke about various vestibular topics, such as the latest BPPV research, treatment of different types of BPPV, chronic dizziness, and even appropriate treatment for dizziness from long COVID.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Hemanski_Ostroski.jpg" alt="" width="604" height="341" /></p> <p>I learned so much from this esteemed group and was excited to take the knowledge back to WWSPT, where I can share it with my colleagues and use it to treat my patients.</p> <p> </p> <p>Dr. Amanda Nguyen, PT, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> (215) 489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-technology-and-research-combined-sections-meeting-csm/">Physical Therapy Technology and Research Combined Sections Meeting (CSM)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-technology-and-research-combined-sections-meeting-csm/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4356</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Research in Vestibular Therapy, Thank you, Dr. Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, Ph.D!</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/research-in-vestibular-therapy-thank-you-dr-galgon-pt-ph-d/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/research-in-vestibular-therapy-thank-you-dr-galgon-pt-ph-d/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 29 Feb 2024 19:41:32 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[video head impulse test (vHIT)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4335</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>We’re grateful for the opportunity to participate in research about Physical Therapists’ ability to learn and use new technology in clinical practice. Thanks to Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, Ph., from St Joseph University, for keeping us involved and being one of the great teachers and leaders in Vestibular Therapy! Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/research-in-vestibular-therapy-thank-you-dr-galgon-pt-ph-d/">Research in Vestibular Therapy, Thank you, Dr. Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, Ph.D!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div></div> <div><strong>We’re grateful for the opportunity to participate in research about Physical Therapists’ ability to learn and use new technology in clinical practice. Thanks to Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, Ph., from St Joseph University, for keeping us involved and being one of the great teachers and leaders in Vestibular Therapy! </strong></div> <div></div> <div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Anne-G.jpg" alt="Anne Galgon, PT, Ph.D., " width="200" height="200" /></div> <div></div> <div> <div>Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, Ph.D, completed this study in our WWSPT clinic with our Physical Therapy Saff, learning about new technology, Video head Impulse testing ( vHIT), and how to use the information to improve our diagnostic assessment and measure progress in improving VOR gain of the Vestibular system with neuromuscular retraining. It gave us an excellent start on using vHIT, and we appreciate the learning experience.</div> </div> <div></div> <div><img decoding="async" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/CSM_header-1.png" alt="" /></div> <div> <div> <div></div> <p>We look forward to the upcoming publication of the Phase One study and our participation in Phase Two in May 2024.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div>If you want to learn more about the <strong>Video Head Impulse Test (vHIT)</strong> and how we at <strong>WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation,</strong> Doylestown, use this test for more accurate vestibular diagnosis, visit <a href="https://wwspt.com/vestibular-diagnostics/vestibular-diagnostic-technology/">Vestibular Diagnostic Technology</a> on our website!”</div> </div> <div></div> <p> </p> <div>Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy And Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> (215) 489-3234</div> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/research-in-vestibular-therapy-thank-you-dr-galgon-pt-ph-d/">Research in Vestibular Therapy, Thank you, Dr. Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, Ph.D!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/research-in-vestibular-therapy-thank-you-dr-galgon-pt-ph-d/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4335</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Balance Awareness Week – Infrared Goggles</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 19 Sep 2023 13:54:09 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Infrared Goggles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4197</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>A problem with the vestibular system or your inner ear system is a possible source of balance issues. This system tells your head how you are oriented in space and sends signals to your brain about how your head moves. To assess this very tiny system, we use infrared goggles.   We use Infrared Goggles […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/">Balance Awareness Week – Infrared Goggles</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A problem with the vestibular system or your inner ear system is a possible source of balance issues. This system tells your head how you are oriented in space and sends signals to your brain about how your head moves. To assess this very tiny system, we use infrared goggles.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We use</span><b> Infrared Goggles</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> when evaluating each person with dizziness or unexplained imbalance. The goggles are an </span><b>essential</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> tool we use to specifically diagnose any vestibular deficits by helping us observe and record your eye movements. Your eyes are a key factor in determining the cause of your balance issue. Sometimes, when you are dizzy or feeling unsteady, your eyes will move in a pattern pointing to a particular inner ear issue, such as decreased vestibular function on one side, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Dr-Greg-Synnestvedt-PT-DPT-using-Insight-Infrared-Video-Googles.png" alt="" width="800" height="600" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Testing with the goggles is relatively simple. We will place the goggles over your eyes, and while it may feel like you are about to enter a virtual reality world, you will be in the dark. Cameras in the goggles send video feedback to our computers, and we can watch your eyes move. From here, we will do different tests and put you in different positions to see how your eyes move and if it provokes any dizziness.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These goggles give us the most accurate information so we can treat the exact issue you are dealing with. While some balance and vestibular issues can be assessed without infrared goggles, the most thorough assessment includes testing with the goggles.</span></p> <p>Dr. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Amanda Nguyen, PT, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> 215 -489-3234 </span></p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/">Balance Awareness Week – Infrared Goggles</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4197</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Good Balance and Good Health Go Together</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/good-balance-and-good-health-go-together/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/good-balance-and-good-health-go-together/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 18 Sep 2023 15:04:23 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[aging process]]></category> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4193</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>As a Vestibular specialist, many patients ask me how to prevent another vestibular event or a fall. Good balance comes from a healthy vestibular system, visual system, and proper input from sensory nerves and muscles. These systems work together to help us move and react, maintaining good balance. As we age, the vestibular system changes. […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/good-balance-and-good-health-go-together/">Good Balance and Good Health Go Together</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As a Vestibular specialist, many patients ask me how to prevent another vestibular event or a fall. Good balance comes from a healthy vestibular system, visual system, and proper input from sensory nerves and muscles. These systems work together to help us move and react, maintaining good balance.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As we age, the vestibular system changes. The hair cell neurons of the inner ear reduce in number, and the postural organs of the ear, the utricle and saccule, also decline in function. This can affect postural reactions and coordination involved in maintaining balance. Otoconia from the utricle and saccule also become more likely to break loose from these organs, causing benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), a condition that we frequently treat in vestibular therapy.</span></p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/BALANCE-IN-AGING.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p> </p> <p><b>How can we slow down the aging process to help our balance?</b></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Exercise that includes changing surfaces to challenge your muscles and postural reactions and head movement added to exercise to make your vestibular system work harder can all improve your balance. Your vestibular therapist can teach you <em><strong>How</strong></em> to incorporate these into your regular workout.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Maintaining good health is important in aging well. Some health issues affect the vestibular system more directly than others. </span><b>Hypertension </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">affects the inner ear since the ear is susceptible to changes in blood flow. The vestibular system’s microcirculation is reduced by hypertension, which can lead to loss of function in the vestibular system. We tend to focus on the circulation to our heart and brain, but issues from reduced blood flow can also occur in the inner ear organ.</span></p> <p><b>Diabetes Mellitus</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> also affects the microcirculation of the inner ear and the peripheral nerves, sometimes causing peripheral neuropathy. Patients with diabetes are 70% more likely to have vestibular and balance deficits, so properly managing your diabetes with exercise and medication is important for good balance.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><em><strong>Exercise</strong></em> has positively affected hypertension, diabetes, circulation, sleep, and many other health factors that impact <em><strong>balance.</strong></em> A physical therapist trained in v<em><strong>estibular rehabilitation</strong></em> can examine how your balance systems are working and help you figure out how to exercise and work on your balance safely.</span></p> <p>Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> (215) 489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/good-balance-and-good-health-go-together/">Good Balance and Good Health Go Together</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/good-balance-and-good-health-go-together/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4193</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Headaches</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/headaches/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/headaches/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jenna McLane PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 15 Feb 2023 02:53:29 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[headache]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Migraines]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Treatments]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Migraines]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3704</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>We have all experienced headaches at some point or another in our life, whether it was a headache from a cold or a more significant debilitating migraine event. The WHO states that half to three-quarters of adults aged 18-65 have experienced headaches in the last year, and among those, 30% reported experiencing a migraine. Headaches […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/headaches/">Headaches</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We have all experienced headaches at some point or another in our life, whether it was a headache from a cold or a more significant debilitating migraine event. The WHO states that half to three-quarters of adults aged 18-65 have experienced headaches in the last year, and among those, 30% reported experiencing a migraine.</p> <p>Headaches are classified as primary or secondary. Primary headaches include migraine, tension headaches, and cluster headaches. Secondary headaches include those experienced as the result of another underlying medical condition, such as a sinus infection, where the swelling and discomfort from the inflammation process cause head pain.</p> <p>In our WWS Physical Therapy practice, we see individuals with various headache types. Our goal is not only to help reduce symptoms but to teach our clients life-long strategies to manage their symptoms better and reduce the frequency of recurrence. This may include exercises for the neck and shoulder region, sleep hygiene and stress management education, and working with patients to identify their personal headache triggers, which vary by individual.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/vestibular-Migraines-COVID19.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Tension Headache</em></strong>:</p> <p>Tension headaches are the most common primary headache disorder. They tend to be bilateral and often feel like a band around the head that is non-throbbing. Pain tends to be mild to moderate but not severe. Stress and muscle tension tend to be the driving factors behind these symptoms. Tension-type headaches typically do not cause photophobia (sensitivity to light), nausea, or vomiting.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Cluster Headache</em></strong>:</p> <p>Cluster headaches are more common in males than females, at a reported ratio of 6 to 1. They cause severe pain on one side and tend to be localized behind one eye. This type of headache may cause the pupil to constrict on the involved side and cause the eye to water. Individuals may also experience sinus congestion or a runny nose on the involved side. These headaches also can be nocturnal, starting 1-2 hours after falling asleep.</p> <p><strong><em>Migraine Headache</em></strong>: Migraine is considered a neurological disease. During this neurological event, abnormal electrical activity may occur in the brain leading to changes in nerve activity and blood flow in the head. It is believed that inflammatory substances are released during this time. Attacks can include headache, usually unilateral, which is throbbing or pulsing. Nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, and visual symptoms can also occur. Some individuals experience changes in speech, coordination, and even numbness associated with their episodes. Other migraine sufferers don’t experience the classic headache as their primary symptom and may experience dizziness, ear pain, or head fullness during an attack.</p> <p> </p> <p>Females are 3x more likely to experience migraine than males. Migraines tend to run in families, and if one parent experiences a migraine, their child has a 50% chance of having one. If both parents have them, that risk increases to 75%.</p> <p> </p> <p>Migraines occur in four phases that can take 8-72 hours to complete. These phases include the <strong>prodrome</strong>, which can cause irritability, depression, muscle stiffness, increased urination, sensitivity to light and sound, and other symptoms. The next phase is the <strong>aura.</strong> Not all migraine sufferers experience an aura, but when present, it can last from 5-60 minutes and may include visual changes, a “funny feeling,” changes in speech, tinnitus, and vision loss. <strong>Headache </strong>is the third phase, associated with the throbbing pain experienced. The headache can spread from one side to both and can be associated with depressed mood, anxiety, fatigue, and sensitivity to light and motion. Following the headache is the <strong>postdrome, </strong>which can last for a day or two after an event. This phase can cause feelings of depression as well as euphoria and difficulty concentrating.</p> <p> </p> <p>Many patients are referred to our Vestibular Therapy practice for complaints of vertigo. Still, during our discussion and evaluation, it is often discovered that these patients also experience signs and symptoms consistent with migraine. A neurological screen is always completed as part of our dizziness evaluations; a headache questionnaire may also be completed when a migraine is suspected. When a headache is suspected, treatment may not be just positional maneuvers for BPPV but can also include migraine symptom management. This treatment plan in physical therapy can involve cardiovascular exercise, habituation exercises to desensitize the nervous system to various movements, and education regarding lifestyle modification. Education can include improving sleep hygiene, modifying screen use, stress management, and learning about common dietary triggers. For some patients, medication is necessary to manage their symptoms fully. We try to work with patients as they navigate their medication journey with their physicians.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you suffer from headaches and want to manage your symptoms better or have questions about improving your activity tolerance, please consider contacting our physical therapy office for an evaluation. We would be happy to help you get started on your headache management journey, no matter where you are in the process.</p> <p>Dr. Jenna McLane, Pt, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.</p> <p>(215) 489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/headaches/">Headaches</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/headaches/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3704</post-id> </item> <item> <title>vHIT, Head Impulse Test</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/vhit-head-impulse-test/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/vhit-head-impulse-test/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 28 Nov 2022 23:03:40 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[head accelerometer monitor]]></category> <category><![CDATA[high-frequency camera system]]></category> <category><![CDATA[inner ear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[six semicircular canals (SSCs)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Ocular exercises (VOR)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular ocular reflex (VOR)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[video head impulse test (vHIT)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VOR function]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3623</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>We have Exciting News at WWSPT! To provide the best vestibular rehabilitation care in the region, WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation clinic, Doylestown, PA., has added the video head impulse test (vHIT) to our diagnostic assessment of patients with dizziness. vHIT is one of the latest developments in vestibular testing. WWSPT is adding the […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/vhit-head-impulse-test/">vHIT, Head Impulse Test</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We have Exciting News at WWSPT!</p> <p>To provide the best <strong>vestibular rehabilitation</strong> care in the region, WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation clinic, Doylestown, PA., has added the <strong>video head impulse test (vHIT)</strong> to our diagnostic assessment of patients with <strong>dizziness</strong>.</p> <p><strong>vHIT </strong>is one of the latest developments in <strong>vestibular testing</strong>. <strong>WWSPT </strong>is adding the <strong>video head impulse test </strong>because extensive research has shown that this new technology can help more accurately <strong>measure the function of all six semicircular canals (SSCs)</strong> of the <strong>inner ear.</strong></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Head-Impulse-Test-vHIT.png" alt="" width="775" height="436" /></p> <p>The test measures a person’s <strong>vestibular ocular reflex (VOR),</strong> or how much the eyes move in response to rapid head movement to focus on a visual target. With quick head movements, the patient should be able to keep his eyes focused on a target. When the VOR is reduced, the patient will have difficulty, especially at higher head movement speeds. The video head impulse test can help detect even the slightest losses in <strong>VOR function</strong>, which can help direct treatment progression. It can also track improvement in deficits after a program of vestibular exercises.</p> <p> </p> <p>The test itself only takes around 15 minutes to perform. The <strong>physical therapist</strong> moves the patient’s head in small movements while the patient is looking at a target on the wall. The <strong>high-frequency camera system </strong>and <strong>head accelerometer monitor</strong> how the eyes move and the head acceleration. Comparing the eye movement to the head movement is how the computer calculates the gain of the canal of the vestibular system that’s being tested.</p> <p> </p> <p>After interpreting the test, <strong>the physical therapist</strong> can make a report which can be shared with the patient and the referring physician.</p> <p>Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> (215) 489- 3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/vhit-head-impulse-test/">vHIT, Head Impulse Test</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/vhit-head-impulse-test/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3623</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Parkinson’s Disease: An Overview and Update on the Research</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/parkinsons-disease-an-overview-and-update-on-the-research/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/parkinsons-disease-an-overview-and-update-on-the-research/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Kelsey Krebs Hanlon, PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 21 Nov 2022 20:05:02 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bradykinesia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brain Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dopamine]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fatigue]]></category> <category><![CDATA[movement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[neurons]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Parkinson's Disease]]></category> <category><![CDATA[physical activity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[PT Treatments]]></category> <category><![CDATA[rigidity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Treatments]]></category> <category><![CDATA[tremor]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3609</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurologic condition with no cure. Half a million Americans are currently diagnosed with PD, and due to misdiagnosis/late diagnosis, experts estimate that the number of people living with PD is closer to 1 million. Finding a cure for PD has proved challenging due to the variability of the diagnosis. There […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/parkinsons-disease-an-overview-and-update-on-the-research/">Parkinson’s Disease: An Overview and Update on the Research</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Parkinson’s disease </strong>(PD) is a progressive neurologic condition with no cure. Half a million Americans are currently diagnosed with PD, and due to misdiagnosis/late diagnosis, experts estimate that the number of people living with PD is closer to 1 million.</p> <p>Finding a cure for PD has proved challenging due to the variability of the diagnosis. There are four main motor symptoms associated with PD: <strong>bradykinesia </strong>(slow movement), <strong>tremor </strong>(more commonly at rest), <strong>rigidity </strong>(an increased tone that makes muscles feel “tight”), and <strong>postural instability </strong>(balance issues). An affected individual can have these symptoms in any combination. The <strong>loss of neurons </strong>in the brain that produce the neurotransmitter (signaling molecule) <strong>dopamine </strong>is responsible for these motor symptoms.</p> <p>Some of the earliest signs of PD include <strong>resting tremor </strong>(worse in times of physical or emotional stress), <strong>small handwriting, difficulty initiating movement, or getting “stuck” in the middle of the action </strong>(often in narrow spaces such as doorways), <strong>a change in your voice </strong>(softer, raspier), <strong>masked facial expressions, forward flexed posture, and lightheadedness when getting up from sitting or lying down</strong>.</p> <p>Several non-motor symptoms have been identified, including <strong>depression/ anxiety, cognitive changes, constipation and nausea, fatigue, breathing problems, poor sense of smell, disrupted REM sleep, and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)</strong>. Recent research suggests that additional damage to brain areas responsible for regulating pathways using norepinephrine, serotonin, and acetylcholine may explain the non-motor symptoms.</p> <p>The cause of PD needs to be better understood. While there appears to be a family history in 15 to 25% of the cases, only about 30% of those with a family history have an identifiable genetic mutation. The origin of most issues is likely a result of a <strong>combination of genetic and environmental factors</strong>. “Early-onset” PD (diagnosis before age 50) is more likely to have a genetic component than onset later in life.</p> <p>Current estimates are that diagnosis of PD occurs <strong>5 to 10 years </strong>from the onset of symptoms. Most people have lost <strong>60 to 80% </strong>of the dopamine-producing neurons at the time of diagnosis. This prevents early treatment and may miss a therapeutic window that could reverse or significantly slow the progression of the disease. In addition, exercise and lifestyle changes become more challenging as the disease progresses.</p> <p>Because some non-motor symptoms (particularly olfactory dysfunction, sleep disruption, and fatigue) occur before identifiable motor changes, there is potential for earlier detection via non-motor signs. However, these symptoms are vague, familiar, and not specific to PD. Furthermore, there is no definitive test for PD, and medical professionals typically use a combination of symptoms, neurological examination, and brain scan tests such as DAT and SPECT to confirm the suspicion.</p> <p>In <strong>September 2022</strong>, a group of researchers from The UK published a study that suggests that a <strong>3-minute skin swab test </strong>for sebum (the body’s oily secretions) is sensitive enough to detect differences in people with PD versus controls. Although further research is needed to determine the implementation of this test in a clinical setting, this has the potential to improve early dramatically and definitive diagnosis of PD, thereby promoting early intervention and improved management of the disease.</p> <p>Research to determine better treatment options for PD is ongoing. In <strong>August 2022</strong>, a study was published demonstrating that <strong>irisin </strong>(a hormone produced during exercise) was shown to prevent the misfolding of a protein responsible for causing cell death in the substantia nigra in mice with PD. This reduced loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells, which coincided with less motor dysfunction in the injection group versus the control group. It is important to note that the research was done in mice and may not translate to human models, but it does highlight a potential mechanism to explore the future treatment of PD.</p> <p>Though drugs are available to treat the symptoms of PD, they come with unwanted side effects and, over time, require increasing doses to be effective. <strong>Exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management </strong>have been shown to reduce the symptoms of PD, thereby improving quality of life and requiring a smaller dose of medication. Exercise, particularly aerobic exercise, has been shown to promote neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to change and form new connections leading to functional and structural changes.) Research has shown that 2.5 hours of aerobic exercise/per week is enough to slow the progression of PD symptoms. Aerobic exercise is defined as “exercise that increases the heart rate and the body’s demand for oxygen.” I think working at <strong>7/10 effort</strong> or <strong>feeling tired and out of breath, </strong>so conversing would be difficult but possible. Recommendations are to sustain this intensity for <strong>20-30 minutes </strong>at a time.</p> <p>Much of the focus of <strong>physical therapy treatment, </strong>specifically for PD, is on <strong>sensory recalibration</strong>, which teaches your brain and body to accept that movement patterns that seem “too big” are typical. Physical therapists are <strong>experts </strong>in movement. The physical therapists who specialize in treating PD will be able to observe these specific motor signs and teach you exercises to help combat the disease. This is accomplished by focusing on effort and amplitude of movement, which can help to improve gait, balance, posture, and function.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/PT-ad-ortho.png" alt="" /></p> <p>If you or a loved one notices a cluster of the above symptoms, bring it up with your doctor and seek the help of a physical therapist at WWSPT who specializes in treating PD. In Parkinson’s disease, early exercise makes all the difference!</p> <p>Dr. Kelsey Hanlon, PT, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.</p> <p>(215) 489-3234</p> <p> </p> <p><em>Sources/References: Parkinson’s. org, Ninds.nih.gov, mayoclinic.org, parkinsonsnewstoday.com</em></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/parkinsons-disease-an-overview-and-update-on-the-research/">Parkinson’s Disease: An Overview and Update on the Research</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/parkinsons-disease-an-overview-and-update-on-the-research/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3609</post-id> </item> </channel> </rss>