Paralysis Treatment

Causes of Paralysis

Though paralysis can be caused due to various reasons, the most common reasons are:

Stroke

Cerebral palsy

Multiple sclerosis

Spina Bifida

Brain tumor

ALS

Symptoms of paralysis

The main symptom of paralysis is the incapacity to move a part of your body, or failure to move the entire body. It can begin suddenly or gradually. Major symptoms are:

Gradual loss of muscle control
Unable to use arms & legs properly
Difficulty in swallowing
Loss of balance
Walking with a limp
Loss of bladder & bowel movement
Slurred speech
Sensory loss

Diagnosis

Paralysis diagnosis is based on the signs and symptoms which the patient presents with. It involves a consultation with a doctor, a complete physical examination of the affected part/s and imaging study of the brain and face. To know the exact extent or degree of paralysis, the doctor might advise the patient to go for investigations like CT or MRI.

Physiotherapy for paralysis

While this can be a difficult thing to live with, physiotherapy for paralysis is the only resort that helps restore movement and sensation in the affected limbs. In many cases, a person can get majority of their mobility back with physiotherapy for paralysis, if not completely.

Role of physiotherapy in managing paralysis

Apart from giving your undivided attention, care, and support you also need to provide the person who is suffering from paralysis with the right kind of treatment. Physiotherapy for paralysis can prove beneficial in not only helping them heal physically but also making them feel relaxed and at ease, mentally.
Physiotherapy treatment for paralysis is designed in such a way that with its regular practice the patient is able to lead a normal life without any hindrance. Depending upon the kind of treatment the patient is undergoing, there are high chances of getting back the movement in paralyzed areas. Just ensure, the process of physiotherapy starts as soon as the patient is stabilized.
Long-term therapy can ensure muscle tone and overall well-being of the patient. Regular and focused physiotherapy can also help in improving the patient’s stamina and getting them back on their feet gradually. It helps in improving blood circulation and slowing down the progress of paralysis. When the brain has suffered an external injury or trauma, physiotherapy may help in reducing the swelling, speed recovery and aid the overall health and well-being of the patient.
Physiotherapy aids in keeping the patient as mobile as possible. Physiotherapists work on the unaffected muscles of the patients in order to keep them in functioning condition. They help stroke survivors regain the use of stroke-impaired limbs, teach compensatory strategies to reduce the effect of remaining deficits, and establish ongoing exercise programs to help them retain their newly learned skills. Disabled people tend to avoid using impaired limbs, a behavior that is called ‘learned non-use’. However, repetitive use of impaired limbs encourages brain plasticity and helps reduce disabilities among stroke survivors.
While the main aim of physiotherapy in paralysis is to build strength and stamina in the affected muscles, recondition affected body parts and prevent the limbs from becoming deformed; it also plays a crucial role in:

Regaining highest mobility possible

Relearning skills that are lost when part of the brain is damaged

Teaching new ways of performing tasks to compensate for residual disabilities

Increasing the respiratory function

Bringing down blood pressure and contracture

Ensuring the unaffected part of the body, in no way, loses mobility

What to expect when choosing physiotherapy for paralysis with HCAH

When you opt for home-based physiotherapy for paralysis from an eminent and experienced home healthcare service provider like HCAH, you are ensured world-class treatment by an expert team of highly qualified and professionally trained physiotherapists. As the first step towards creating a comprehensive & personalized recovery program, our assigned physiotherapist does a complete assessment of the patient’s physical and medical condition. Basis the results of the assessment, with consideration of the patient’s medical history and unique needs to achieve functional mobility to carry out everyday tasks, the physiotherapist charts out a customized outcome-based treatment plan that’s best suited to their condition. The treatment plan is further discussed with an experienced clinical team before it’s put into action.

What sets HCAH apart is the complete personal attention and care each of our physiotherapists imparts to their patients, which is the key to faster recovery. To keep track of the overall progress of the patient, continuous monitoring is done on a daily basis and a periodic assessment report is prepared, which is then reviewed by the treating doctor for further suggestions and modifications in the treatment plan (if required). As dedicated healthcare professionals, HCAH expert physiotherapists work with the aim of improving independence and quality of life of the patients. Therefore, you’ll always find them having an empathetic approach and working as per the progress of the patient and not rushing them into a more painful situation just because it’s a commonly followed practice among physiotherapists outside. HCAH physiotherapists maintain international protocols and standards when it comes to healing patients in the comfort of their home and provides them with the right kind of care and support required to put them on the path to recovery. As India’s largest and only home care service provider offering patient-specific outcome-based treatment plans, we assure you:
- A professionally trained & certified team of expert physiotherapists
- Patient-focused approach
- Clinical credibility
- Hands-on management of a broad range of conditions
- Restoration of mobility & faster recovery for patients in the home environment.

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High clinical quality –Comprehensive & customised treatment plans

Exercise program for self-maintenance

Regular patient progress report (for reviews & amendments)

Continuous monitoring by our clinical team of experts

Outcome-based discharge plan

25+ years of home care experience in delivering satisfaction to 4 lacs+ patients in 40+ cities

Benefits of home physiotherapy for paralyzed patients

Have someone in the family who’s suffering from paralysis? Are you finding it difficult to manage time between your personal commitments and looking after their daily needs? Here’s why home physiotherapy will work best for the both of you:

Timings are set to suit your schedule and not that of the clinic: Often times, the biggest barrier to sticking to regular physiotherapy is strict appointment schedules set by the clinic. But that might not be the case when you opt for a home-based physiotherapy service provider. When you make an appointment with a home healthcare provider like HCAH, the appointment is scheduled at a date and time of your convenience and not theirs.

Recovery in the company of loved ones: The home environment is always considered to be more conducive and comfortable compared to that of a clinic. Being surrounded by friends and family during the treatment process can help boost the confidence of the patient and positively contribute to their speedy recovery.

Personalised treatment: Generally, in a clinic, a large number of patients are present and physiotherapists often find it hard to focus on any one patient. Opting for a private physiotherapy treatment at home gives the patient the advantage of undivided attention and care by the physiotherapist resulting in their faster recovery.

Physiotherapy at door step: Imagine being able to rest and recover at home after a good physiotherapy session. It’s possible only with home-based physiotherapy treatment. Home physiotherapy gives you and the patient the advantage of skipping the hassles of traffic and waiting in line for the appointment. What it also gives you is the benefit of regular patient progress report, periodical reviews or audits by experienced clinical team and an outcome-based discharge plan once the patient is through with the physiotherapy at home program.

Home health care is a safe and effective solution that supports the family while allowing the patient to stay at home in the company of their loved ones. A well-known home healthcare service provider like HCAH ensures quality health care for the paralyzed patient while they enjoy the love and support of their family members within the comfort of their home.

Comprehensive & customised treatment plans

High quality & protocol-led care at home

Regular patient progress report (for reviews & amendments)

Continuous monitoring by our clinical team of experts

Exercise program for self-maintenance

Outcome based discharge plan

25+ years of home care experience in delivering satisfaction to 4 lacs+ patients in 40+ cities

Benefits of exercise for Paralysis

The most important benefit of exercise is that it will help maintain and improve blood circulation along with strengthening the affected muscles. It will also help you regain balance and motor skills in the affected areas of the body.

Exercises that a physiotherapist suggests

Some of the basic exercises that can aid in paralysis recovery are:

Aerobic exercises

The goal of this set of exercises is to enhance the function of the motor neuron and the aerobic capacity of a patient. This is especially useful for patients who suffer paralysis after a stroke, and also for those who suffer from some form of one or both side of paralysis.

The physical therapist will plan out a customized exercise plan based on the overall condition of a patient.

For the session, the physiotherapist might use support straps and gain belts to help a patient stand on their feet.

The physiotherapist might also use a handrail to help the patient walk during this phase.

If the patient isn’t able to stand without support, more than one physiotherapist helps the patient to take steps as well as to improve the body strength and balance.

Physical conditioning

A combination of exercises are used to maintain balance and stability for a paralyzed patient.

The physiotherapists rely on passive or active motion exercises to help the patient regain function of the limbs.

In severe cases, muscle atrophy can completely waste away the muscle power. And it helps strengthen the muscle power and also helps the patient cope better.

Leg rotations

This is helpful for the patients who suffer paralysis after a stroke and also for people who suffer from paralysis in lower limbs.

Range of motion exercises are performed by the physiotherapists for lower body. This improves the functioning of the muscles in the lower limbs.

One of the most common and effective exercises tried by the physiotherapists is to make the patient lie down with their legs straightened. Then the right leg is moved outward and pulled backward. This is repeated again on the other leg.

The physiotherapist also provides support to the knee joint and the ankle, as the patient moves one leg outward and then takes it inward.

Exercises that a physiotherapist suggests

Some of the basic exercises that can aid in paralysis recovery are:

Aerobic exercises

The goal of this set of exercises is to enhance the function of the motor neuron and the aerobic capacity of a patient. This is especially useful for patients who suffer paralysis after a stroke, and also for those who suffer from some form of one or both side of paralysis.

The physical therapist will plan out a customized exercise plan based on the overall condition of a patient.

For the session, the physiotherapist might use support straps and gain belts to help a patient stand on their feet.

The physiotherapist might also use a handrail to help the patient walk during this phase.

If the patient isn’t able to stand without support, more than one physiotherapist helps the patient to take steps as well as to improve the body strength and balance.

Physical conditioning

A combination of exercises are used to maintain balance and stability for a paralyzed patient.

The physiotherapists rely on passive or active motion exercises to help the patient regain function of the limbs.

In severe cases, muscle atrophy can completely waste away the muscle power. And it helps strengthen the muscle power and also helps the patient cope better.

Leg rotations

This is helpful for the patients who suffer paralysis after a stroke and also for people who suffer from paralysis in lower limbs.

Range of motion exercises are performed by the physiotherapists for lower body. This improves the functioning of the muscles in the lower limbs.

One of the most common and effective exercises tried by the physiotherapists is to make the patient lie down with their legs straightened. Then the right leg is moved outward and pulled backward. This is repeated again on the other leg.

The physiotherapist also provides support to the knee joint and the ankle, as the patient moves one leg outward and then takes it inward.

In addition to these exercises, other physiotherapy interventions which can help in the recovery of stroke patients include:

Mat activities

Strengthening

Stretching

Weight bearing & shifting exercises

Transfer training

Balance training

Gait training

Functional task training

Disclaimer: Make sure these exercises are done in the presence of a certified physiotherapist to avoid any accidental injury. Moreover, if the patient feels pain or discomfort at any point, do make sure to tell the physiotherapist and stop immediately. Also, please note that physiotherapists don’t solely rely on these exercises, as they follow an array of methods in a safe and highly-effective environment!

How long will it take to recover?

Generally, the time taken for recovery differs from patient to patient. Since physiotherapy treatment is based on treating the whole body rather than just the affected body part, a lot of time is spent understanding the correct position of the body and of the limbs, while the patient is confined to the bed or a chair. Every time the patient is moved, whether to turn the patient in the bed or to help transfer the patient from the bed to a chair or a commode, it should be a carefully worked out pattern. It is very important that all the limbs must always be placed in the correct position each time the patient is shifted. The time taken will also be based on how well you follow the rehabilitation process.

Can age affect the time taken to recover?

Age can have an impact on how long you would take to recover from paralysis. The older you are, the more time your body will take to heal. Also, if the patient is suffering from any other type of health condition, it will have a direct impact on the overall time it takes for the body to recover from paralysis.

How can family members support?

Knowing how to support a paralysis patient can be both intimidating and frustrating at first. The patient may be resistant to your support and assistance but the key lies in approaching the situation with patience and learning things along the way. What you’d realise is, though some days would be satisfying and positive, there will also be those that will leave you feeling physically and emotionally drained. But remember, even though it is going to be a learning process for everyone, considering few things in advance will help you get started on the path and be in control of the situation right from the beginning.

What to expect when caring for a paralyzed patient at home?

Initial resistance:

Your loved one has just been diagnosed with paralysis and it’s only natural for them to feel angry, frustrated, unhappy and helpless in the state they now are in. Getting used to one’s invalid physically state takes time and as a family member, the least you can do is stay calm, relaxed and supportive. Speak to them often and tell them how you care for them and trying your best to be mindful of their needs. If you find it hard initially to adjust to your newfound role as a caregiver, take professional caregiver classes to help you understand the best way in which you can communicate with your loved one especially when they are in some kind of pain or distress.

Uncontrolled reactions or frequent emotional outbursts:

Always remember that no matter how hard you try you are going to falter. And it’s completely okay! Resistance and ungratefulness from your loved ones can leave you in tears and you may find it difficult to hide your feelings. But try to suppress your anger and stay calm. Try to distract your mind by listening to soothing music or meditate. Talk to a friend or just go out for a walk. Join an online support group or community where you can share your experience and learn from others on how to handle the situation better. These things can help you calm down and not feel upset for long. Remember, your loved one has no control over their feelings and it’s only your love and support that can help them emerge stronger and embrace their condition with dignity.

Physical limitations:

Often times it becomes difficult to help a paralysis patient with their everyday needs like walking, bathing, and feeding etc., which require intensive physical effort on your part. It can be physically draining and lead to stress and body pain issues of your own. But you can take help of physical or occupational therapists to assist you in the carrying out everyday chores of the patient and also teach you how best to use your body for these tasks without stressing it out.

If you are going to support a family member with the kind of care they require, you have to take care of your own physical and emotional needs as well. It’s only when you are mentally and physically strong you’d be able to be able to motivate them to stay positive and happy. As a primary caregiver, your loved one would be in constant need of your assistance and support. You will be of no use to them if you are feeling ill, depressed or stressed out. So stay positive & healthy and embrace this new role of yours with all your heart.

How can family members support?

Knowing how to support a paralysis patient can be both intimidating and frustrating at first. The patient may be resistant to your support and assistance but the key lies in approaching the situation with patience and learning things along the way. What you’d realise is, though some days would be satisfying and positive, there will also be those that will leave you feeling physically and emotionally drained. But remember, even though it is going to be a learning process for everyone, considering few things in advance will help you get started on the path and be in control of the situation right from the beginning.

What to expect when caring for a paralyzed patient at home?

Initial resistance:

Your loved one has just been diagnosed with paralysis and it’s only natural for them to feel angry, frustrated, unhappy and helpless in the state they now are in. Getting used to one’s invalid physically state takes time and as a family member, the least you can do is stay calm, relaxed and supportive. Speak to them often and tell them how you care for them and trying your best to be mindful of their needs. If you find it hard initially to adjust to your newfound role as a caregiver, take professional caregiver classes to help you understand the best way in which you can communicate with your loved one especially when they are in some kind of pain or distress.

Uncontrolled reactions or frequent emotional outbursts:

Always remember that no matter how hard you try you are going to falter. And it’s completely okay! Resistance and ungratefulness from your loved ones can leave you in tears and you may find it difficult to hide your feelings. But try to suppress your anger and stay calm. Try to distract your mind by listening to soothing music or meditate. Talk to a friend or just go out for a walk. Join an online support group or community where you can share your experience and learn from others on how to handle the situation better. These things can help you calm down and not feel upset for long. Remember, your loved one has no control over their feelings and it’s only your love and support that can help them emerge stronger and embrace their condition with dignity.

Physical limitations:

Often times it becomes difficult to help a paralysis patient with their everyday needs like walking, bathing, and feeding etc., which require intensive physical effort on your part. It can be physically draining and lead to stress and body pain issues of your own. But you can take help of physical or occupational therapists to assist you in the carrying out everyday chores of the patient and also teach you how best to use your body for these tasks without stressing it out.

If you are going to support a family member with the kind of care they require, you have to take care of your own physical and emotional needs as well. It’s only when you are mentally and physically strong you’d be able to be able to motivate them to stay positive and happy. As a primary caregiver, your loved one would be in constant need of your assistance and support. You will be of no use to them if you are feeling ill, depressed or stressed out. So stay positive & healthy and embrace this new role of yours with all your heart.

How to keep the paralyzed patient away from depression?

Knowing how to support a paralysis patient can be both intimidating and frustrating at first. The patient may be resistant to your support and assistance but the key lies in approaching the situation with patience and learning things along the way. What you’d realise is, though some days would be satisfying and positive, there will also be those that will leave you feeling physically and emotionally drained. But remember, even though it is going to be a learning process for everyone, considering few things in advance will help you get started on the path and be in control of the situation right from the beginning.

Sleeping a lot or suddenly not able to sleep at all

Sudden change in weight

Disinterest in speaking or engaging in familiar activities

Staying quiet and aloof most of the time

Perpetually talking in negative terms

It is important to be present with your loved one and to understand their fears and concerns. Listen to them and let them get the frustration off their chest. Even if you detect a hint of self-harm, please treat this as an emergency. Speak to the doctor immediately!

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Physiotherapy For Paralysis Treatment

Initial resistance:

Uncontrolled reactions or frequent emotional outbursts:

Physical limitations:

Initial resistance:

Uncontrolled reactions or frequent emotional outbursts:

Physical limitations:

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