Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) is an illness that impacts the brain’s capacity to drain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) correctly, leading to the accumulation of fluid in the ventricles of the brain. Despite the influx of fluid, the pressure inside the brain remains in a normal range and hence the name “normal pressure”. NPH typically affects older adults and is often mistakenly identified as Parkinson’s disease or the aging process.
What are the Symptoms of NPH?
NPH is characterized by a classic trifecta of symptoms:
Gait disorders : They are usually one of the first and most obvious symptoms. It usually manifests as shifting or unstable walk. Patients may experience feeling as if their feet are “stuck” on the ground.
Urinary incontinence: Another frequent manifestation, it is usually manifested as frequent urination or an abrupt inexplicably strong urge to urinate.
People suffering from cognitive impairment can have memory issues as well as confusion and an impairment in executive function, causing problems with daily tasks.
These conditions, particularly when they are combined, can have profound effects on a person’s quality life. But, with the right diagnosis and therapy, a lot of sufferers can see significant improvement.
The Role of Physiotherapy in Managing NPH
The importance of physiotherapy is to help patients suffering from NPH who have physical issues related to the disease. After surgical processes such as shunt placements, often used to dry excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain, helps support physiotherapy recovery and increase overall function. It is mentioned here how neuro physiotherapy can be beneficial:
Gait Retraining
Gait problems, such as walking with a shaky or unstable gait are the most common signs of NPH. The physiotherapy focus is on retraining gait and helping patients improve their walking. With specific exercises, we seek to restore a natural gait and improve the ability of patients to walk with confidence. The physiotherapist can employ techniques like:
- Training for strength to strengthen the muscles needed to support walking.
- Balance exercises that aid in coordination.
- External cues, like visual or verbal cues to promote smoother movement.
Balance and Fall Prevention
A lot of people with NPH have a higher risk for falling because of their inability to balance. Physiotherapy focuses on improving postural stability through exercise to improve balance and reduce the possibility of falling. Techniques such as standing exercise, weight-shift exercise as well as balance board exercise are capable of helping patients to create more confidence and control of their moves. It is particularly helpful for those superiors who are susceptible to injuries caused by fall.
Functional Mobility Training
One of the main goals of physiotherapy to those who suffer from NPH is to regain their functional independence. The physiotherapists are focused on exercises that directly affect daily things like getting up from a sitting position, going up stairs or getting up and into the bed. They are vital to maintain the patient’s independence. By doing these exercises in therapy, patients learn to perform the tasks in a safe and secure manner.
Strength and Endurance Building
The weakness of the muscles can be a common symptom in NPH because of a reduced mobility. The physiotherapy program includes exercises designed to build muscles and increase endurance, which allows patients to remain active for longer durations without exhaustion. Strengthening the lower and core strength is crucial, since it assists in sustaining mobility and gait.
Neuromuscular Re-Education
NPH causes disruptions in the way that brains communicate with muscles, which can lead to an inability to coordinate. Neuromuscular rehabilitation is an essential aspect of physiotherapy that assists patients re-establish connections by performing repetitive and planned exercises. This may result in better movements, improved coordination, and more efficient execution of daily tasks.
Assistive Devices Training
Certain patients suffering from NPH could benefit from using assistive devices like canes and walkers to assist in mobility. Therapists offer guidance on selecting and making use of these devices in a safe, effective way. Making sure that patients are using devices in a safe manner reduces the chances of falling and helps them develop more confidence in their movements.
Cognitive and Dual Task Training
NPH may affect the cognitive function of a person, and this can influence physical performance. Physiotherapists frequently use dual-task training to test the ability of patients to think and walk simultaneously, such as walking while having a conversation or tallying numbers. This aids in improving motor and cognitive skills at the same time as a way of getting back to independence in everyday life.
Long-Term Benefits of Physiotherapy for NPH Patients
The impact of NPH on balance and mobility are often progressive if they are not controlled properly, therefore ongoing physical therapy is vital to maintain and enhance functional capabilities. Through encouraging physical movement and ensuring that patients are engaged in a regular workout, physiotherapy reduces the possibility of future decline. Additionally, long-term physiotherapy:
Improves mobility: Patients may keep the gains made after surgery or in the first treatment phase and enjoy long-lasting benefits.
Helps maintain overall general health: Regular movements and exercise improve joint flexibility, cardiovascular health and muscle strength, helping to improve overall health.
Enhances quality of life : The physiotherapy program helps people regain the independence they need to complete their everyday tasks with greater confidence and ease, increasing their overall quality of life.
How can a REHAB THERAPIST Can Help You?
We at REHABTHERAPIST offer skilled Neuro Physiotherapy at the convenience of your home. We are specialized in helping patients suffering from conditions such as normal Pressure Hydrocephalus. Our highly skilled team of Neurological Physiotherapists design and implement personalised rehabilitation programs designed to meet the specific needs of each patient’s requirements. Through working within your home, we make sure that your therapy is effective and relevant. It is also focused on the issues that are most important to you.
Our model of therapy at home eliminates the burden and stress of traveling to clinics for outpatients and ensures that you or someone you love will receive consistent and efficient therapy in a familiar environment. We believe that with proper support, those suffering from NPH can make huge strides in their recovery, enhancing the quality of their mobility, cognitive functioning, and overall health.
If you or someone in your family is suffering from NPH If you or a loved one is suffering from NPH, call REHAB THERAPIST right now. Let us assist you in navigating the difficulties of NPH and reach your goals in rehabilitation at the convenience of your home.
An account of a patient suffering from NPH and Alzheimer’s disease who has been helped by a rehabilitation therapist.
“Having been unable to locate the best treatment to deal with my complicated neurological issues, I was extremely pleased to find REHAB THERAPIST. I had a programmeable neuroshunt placed in my brain. However, it took a long time to achieve, which resulted in numerous falls, which required long hospitalizations. I was housebound for two years and the effects on my family and wife was a huge one. Neurosurgeons were the only ones who had even known about my condition, and they were not even capable of helping. Krishna was introduced to my life at the start of August. He immediately recognized my requirements. He first visited me three times per week and that’s when my recovery journey began. He is compassionate, understanding and has a great sense of humor and a wealth of Neuro physiotherapy expertise. After a few months I was able to complete the exercise plan that was created by him on my own. I’m now able to be able to walk on my own and able to see the future, something that prior until meeting Krishna was impossible. Krishna changed my life, and I’ll always be thankful.”