1. Physiotherapy
in the management of
Transverse Myelitis

2. Physiotherapy can help at all stages to
Transverse Myelitis can be a devastating condition with life changing consequences
Physiotherapy can help at all stages to
manage symptoms
reduce secondary consequences
reduce impairment
increase activity
maximise functional ability
Increase participation

3. Stages of Intervention
Acute phase
Recovery phase
Long term

4. Acute Phase Respiratory problems Muscle weakness / altered tone
Soft tissue shortening
Positioning
Pain
Mobility
Balance

5. Recovery Phase Muscle weakness / imbalance / tonal issues
Soft tissue shortening / joint stiffness
Sensory issues
Postural control
Mobility
Balance
Stamina
Pain control

6. Recovery Phase Musculo-skeletal issues Wheelchair skills
Re-education of normal movement
Gait re-education
Function
Seating
Equipment

7. Long Term Management Musculo-skeletal issues Pain control
Seating and postural control
Mobility
Bladder re-training
Fitness
Function
Participation

8. Disabilities is an umbrella term, covering impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions
An impairment is a problem in body function or structure An activity limitation is a difficulty encountered by an individual in executing a task or action A participation restriction is a problem experienced by an individual in involvement in life situations

9. A physiotherapist can intervene at any level
By treating an impairment
By reducing an activity restriction
By problem solving a participation restriction

10. ….so what would we do ? Take a complete history
Carry out a thorough assessment
Identify specific issues
Discuss findings
Work with you to establish treatment goals
Liaise with all relevant parties
Work with you, your family, your carers

11. …. So what might that involve?
Individual treatment sessions
Home management programme
Seating plan
Equipment provision
Information and advice
Liaison with other professionals
Liaison with other service providers
Workplace based assessment
Regular review

12. …..so who else might be involved?
Pain clinic
GP / Consultant
Orthotist
Occupational Therapist
Wheelchair providers
Equipment providers
Specialist clinicians – FES, ACPWH, MSK

13. What we can offer…. Home visits Clinic based treatment
Community based input
Long term management
Physiotherapy Assistant
Regular review
Self referral

14. At Neuro Rehabilitation Kent we use an individual, person centred approach. This means that, following assessment, we will discuss with you your aims, goals and expectations and work with you towards achieving them
"We aim to maximise individual potential to promote functional independence and improved quality of life”

15. Elissa Benson MCSP Jane Cast MCSP HCPC Registered Physiotherapists Tel: