The Student Series: Episode #5

Exercise Prescription

Welcome back to the fifth instalment of this seven-part blog series, written by a student during their placement with Dorset Neuro Rehab. Throughout the series, we explore different aspects of neurological rehabilitation and the challenges faced by individuals with neurological conditions. In this post, we’ll delve into exercise prescription and how physiotherapists design individualised programmes for specific neurological conditions. Stay tuned for more insights in the upcoming episodes!

Exercise Prescription

In the fifth edition of this blog series, we will be discussing exercise prescription. Physiotherapists are movement experts. They spend years studying the human body and how it moves, and they use this knowledge to help people recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve overall function. A tool they use to do this is exercise prescription.

What is Exercise Prescription?

Exercise prescription is the process of designing a tailored exercise program for an individual based on their specific needs and goals. Unlike generic fitness plans, exercise prescriptions for neurological conditions are highly individualised, requiring a deep understanding of the musculoskeletal and nervous system and its impact on movement.

Understanding the Challenges for Neurological Conditions

Neurological conditions vary widely, from stroke and multiple sclerosis to Parkinson’s disease and spinal cord injuries. Each condition presents unique challenges, and exercise programmes must be tailored accordingly. For instance, a stroke will often result in weakness, balance issues, and sensory impairments. Exercise focuses on regaining movement, improving balance, and preventing contractures. This is completely different to prescribing exercise for a complete spinal cord injury, as this causes paralysis and sensory loss. Exercise concentrates on strengthening unaffected muscles, preventing contractures, and improving functional abilities.

The Physiotherapist’s Role

Physiotherapists utilise a comprehensive and structured approach to exercise prescription for individuals with neurological conditions:

Initial Assessment:
A detailed evaluation is conducted to identify specific impairments, functional limitations, and goals. This assessment will start at the initial consultation and physiotherapists will continue to assess throughout the whole rehabilitation journey.

Goal Setting:
Collaborative goal setting ensures the exercise program aligns with the patient’s needs and aspirations as well as making sure they are realistic and achievable.

Exercise Selection:
Exercises are carefully chosen to target specific areas of weakness, improve balance, and enhance coordination. For example:

Stroke: Focuses on regaining arm and leg function, improving balance, and preventing contractures.
Multiple Sclerosis: Emphasises endurance, strength, and balance to manage fatigue and improve mobility.
Parkinson’s Disease: Targets mobility, flexibility, balance, and gait to reduce stiffness and improve coordination.
Complete Spinal Cord Injury: Focuses on strengthening muscles above the injury level, preventing contractures, and improving functional independence.

Summary

Exercise and exercise prescription is a key component in the management of neurological conditions when it is advised and overseen by a physiotherapist. Exercise can greatly enhance the quality of life for those who face these issues by improving overall function and addressing specific deficits. The advantages of prescribed exercise programs are indisputable, ranging from improving mental health and fatigue management to restoring mobility and balance.

In this fifth instalment of the series, we explore the vital role of exercise prescription in neurological rehabilitation. Discover how physiotherapists tailor exercise programmes for different neurological conditions, from initial assessment through to specific exercise selection. Stay tuned for more insights and experiences from the placement, with more exciting topics on the way!

Student Physiotherapist
Neurological Placement