The goal of Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) is to improve the functional abilities and independence of individuals with neurological conditions or disorders. This approach focuses on promoting normal movement patterns and facilitating the development of motor skills. The ultimate aim is to enhance the individual's overall quality of life and participation in daily activities.
Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) differs from other therapeutic approaches in its emphasis on the principles of normal movement and motor control. It is based on the understanding that the brain has the potential to reorganize and adapt, allowing individuals to learn new movement patterns and improve their motor skills. NDT also takes into account the individual's unique abilities and challenges, tailoring the treatment to their specific needs.
Erson tells a story of getting back to rock climbing after a 20 year break. After a finger injury that wasn't healing, he got some totally unexpected great advice from another climber. What do you think of the solution and has anything similar ever happened to you? Untold Physio Stories is sponsored byThe Eclectic Approach Network - Check out Dr. E's all new private, non tracking and ad free network for rehab pros! It's free to join, has chat, feed, and all the features of other social networks without the creeping tracking.Check out EDGE Mobility System's Best Sellers - Something for every PT, OT, DC, MT, ATC or Fitness Minded Individual https://edgemobilitysystem.comCurv Health - Start your own Virtual Clinic Side Hustle for FREE! Create your profile in 3 minutes, set your rates, and Curv will handle the rest! From scheduling to payments, messaging, charting, and a full exercise library that allow for patient/clinician tracking, it's never been easier! Click to join Dr. E's new Virtual Clinic Collective to help promote best online practices. Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-07-06
Tension-type headache (TTH) is a prevalent and burdensome condition that affects many individuals. Recent research suggests that the cervical spine, specifically the trigemino-cervical nucleus caudalis, may play a role in the development of TTH. This nucleus facilitates the exchange of pain signals between the upper cervical spine and the trigeminal nerve, which is involved in headache generation. Links between the upper cervical spine and TTHStudies have shown that individuals with TTH often exhibit musculoskeletal impairments. Common findings include forward head posture and restricted cervical range of motion. These physical dysfunctions may contribute to the headache symptoms experienced by TTH patients. Neck pain and sensitivity in the cervical spine are frequently reported alongside TTH and may worsen the clinical presentation of the headache. These symptoms could be epiphenomena resulting from the sensitization of the trigemino-cervical nucleus caudalis.While forward head posture is a common observation in TTH, its direct relevance to the headache remains a topic of debate. Similarly, the relationship between restricted cervical range of motion and TTH is not well understood. It is uncertain whether these musculoskeletal impairments are causative factors or consequences of the headache.Clinicians often use the cervical flexion-rotation test to assess upper cervical spine mobility, which has proven useful in diagnosing cervicogenic headache. However, its application and significance in TTH are not extensively studied. Further research is needed to elucidate the role of this test in TTH diagnosis and management.Another intriguing observation is the reproduction of headache pain through manual stimulation of the upper cervical spine in both cervicogenic headache and TTH. This suggests that referred pain from the cervical spine may be involved in the pathophysiology of primary headaches. Understanding this mechanism could lead to novel therapeutic approaches for TTH.Additionally, trigger points in the neck-shoulder muscles may contribute to TTH symptoms by generating muscle referred pain. These trigger points can refer pain to other areas, including the head, and may exacerbate the headache experienced by individuals with TTH. Managing TTH in practiceA multidisciplinary approach involving physical therapy interventions targeting musculoskeletal impairments, exercise, and psychological aspects is essential for the management of TTH. The effectiveness of cervical treatment approaches varies, and personalized strategies should be tailored to individual patients. Understanding the role of the cervical spine in TTH and differentiating between cervical components and sources can aid in the recognition and treatment of diverse headache presentations. Our cervical spine models help professionals manage the connections between TTH and the role of the cervical spine. Check out my exclusive blue nucleus anti-nocebo version!via Dr. Jerome Fryer - Dynamic Disc Designs Want to learn in person? Attend a #manualtherapyparty! Check out our course calendar below! Learn more online - new online discussion group included! Want an approach that enhances your existing evaluation and treatment? No commercial model gives you THE answer. You need an approach that blends the modern with the old school. NEW - Online Discussion Group Live cases webinars lecture Live Q&A over 600 videos - hundreds of techniques and more! Check out MMT Insiders Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-07-05
Erson goes over an interesting TMJ case of posterior disc subluxation and severe pain with opening and eating. It turns out after significant improvement the patient was still checking for tenderness a bit too much. Untold Physio Stories is sponsored byHelix Pain Creams - I use Helix Creams in my practice and patients love them! Perfect in combination with joint mobs, IASTM and soft tissue work. Get your sample and start an additional revenue stream for your practice. Click here to get started. https://modmt.com/helixCheck out EDGE Mobility System's Best Sellers - Something for every PT, OT, DC, MT, ATC or Fitness Minded Individual https://edgemobilitysystem.comCurv Health - Start your own Virtual Clinic Side Hustle for FREE! Create your profile in 3 minutes, set your rates, and Curv will handle the rest! From scheduling to payments, messaging, charting, and a full exercise library that allow for patient/clinician tracking, it's never been easier! Click to join Dr. E's new Virtual Clinic Collective to help promote best online practices. Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-06-26
By Dr. Sean Wells, DPT, PT, OCS, ATC/L, CSCS, NSCA-CPT, CNPT, Cert-DNAs physical therapists (PTs) we do our best to optimize our older clients' strength, balance, and functioning. Obviously, our mainstay interventions focus on exercises, balance training, and adaptive equipment. In our courses, we highlight the importance of Vitamin D status and protein consumption for older adults, to improve balance, strength, and prevent sarcopenia. A recent study in Nature Aging highlights yet another potential dietary component that impacts muscle function: ceramides.Ceramides, a sphingolipid, which is a type of fat, has been shown to reduce muscle mass and functional capacity in rodents. Moreover, it has been shown that offering ceramide-inhibiting medication effectively reverses sarcopenia, which is very promising for human studies. In the current study the authors examined older adults with a genetic variant to inhibit ceramides. The results showed these adults with the variant had significantly better grip strength, walking distance, and sit to stand function: all metrics that Doctors of Physical Therapy (DPT) routinely measure. The next big step for these researchers is understanding how to yield these results via medication and/or dietary changes.Fortunately, other authors have highlighted how PTs and other clinicians can advise their patients on how to naturally reduce ceramides in their diet. In the FRUVEDomic pilot study, authors demonstrated that a diet low in fruits and vegetables, and high in saturated fat, facilitated an increase in hepatic ceramide production. The researchers concluded that even transitioning patients from a standard Western diet to even the US Dietary Guidelines would yield positive responses for aging. Imagine the impact on aging and physical functioning if we took the diet to a bit more extreme, such as the true Mediterranean or predominant plant-based diet? More research is needed, but PTs need to be aware that fruit and vegetable consumption is important for many health outcomes, and screening tools are available and easy to use. We discuss this and more in our courses!If you like what you see here then know there is more in our 3 board-approved continuing education courses on Nutrition specific for Physical Therapists. Enroll today in our new bundled course offering and save 20%, a value of $60!Want to learn in person? Attend a #manualtherapyparty! Check out our course calendar below! Learn more online - new online discussion group included! Want an approach that enhances your existing evaluation and treatment? No commercial model gives you THE answer. You need an approach that blends the modern with the old school. NEW - Online Discussion Group Live cases webinars lecture Live Q&A over 600 videos - hundreds of techniques and more! Check out MMT Insiders Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-06-19
Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) can be used for a variety of conditions or disorders that affect motor control and movement. Some common examples include cerebral palsy, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and developmental delays. It can also be beneficial for individuals with conditions such as Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.
Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) addresses motor control and movement difficulties by focusing on the underlying impairments and limitations. The therapist assesses the individual's movement patterns, muscle tone, and coordination to identify areas of dysfunction. Through hands-on techniques, therapeutic exercises, and functional activities, the therapist aims to promote more efficient movement, improve muscle strength and coordination, and enhance overall motor control.
Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) utilizes a range of techniques and interventions to address motor control and movement difficulties. These may include facilitation techniques to promote normal movement patterns, inhibition techniques to reduce abnormal muscle tone, and sensory integration techniques to enhance the individual's awareness and perception of their body in space. The therapist may also incorporate functional activities and tasks into the treatment to help the individual apply their improved motor skills in real-life situations.
The role of the therapist in Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) is to assess, analyze, and guide the individual's movement and motor control. The therapist works closely with the individual to identify their specific goals and develop a personalized treatment plan. They provide hands-on guidance and support during therapeutic exercises and activities, helping the individual to improve their movement patterns and motor skills. The therapist also educates and empowers the individual and their caregivers, equipping them with strategies and techniques to continue progress outside of therapy sessions.
Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) is suitable for individuals of all ages, although it is commonly used with children. Early intervention with NDT can be particularly beneficial for infants and young children with developmental delays or neurological conditions. However, NDT can also be effective for adolescents and adults who have experienced neurological injuries or have ongoing motor control difficulties. The treatment approach is adaptable and can be tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of individuals across the lifespan.
Mindfulness-based techniques have been found to be highly beneficial in the treatment of anxiety disorders. These techniques involve bringing one's attention to the present moment and accepting it without judgment. By practicing mindfulness, individuals with anxiety disorders can develop a greater awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations, allowing them to better understand and manage their anxiety. This increased self-awareness can help individuals recognize and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to their anxiety. Additionally, mindfulness-based techniques promote relaxation and stress reduction, which can help alleviate the physical symptoms of anxiety. Research has shown that mindfulness-based interventions, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms and improve overall well-being in individuals with anxiety disorders.
Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has been shown to have a positive impact on sleep quality in individuals with insomnia. Research studies have demonstrated that practicing mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and body awareness, can help individuals with insomnia to relax and reduce their levels of stress and anxiety. By focusing on the present moment and cultivating a non-judgmental attitude towards their thoughts and feelings, individuals with insomnia can experience a sense of calmness and tranquility that can promote better sleep. Additionally, MBSR can also enhance self-awareness and self-regulation, allowing individuals to better understand and manage the factors that contribute to their insomnia. Overall, MBSR offers a holistic approach to improving sleep quality in individuals with insomnia by addressing both the psychological and physiological aspects of sleep disturbances.
Acupuncture has been found to be an effective treatment option for managing chronic low back pain. Numerous studies have shown that acupuncture can provide significant pain relief and improve functional outcomes in individuals with this condition. The insertion of thin needles into specific acupuncture points stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. Additionally, acupuncture helps to reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation, and promote relaxation, all of which contribute to the management of chronic low back pain. Furthermore, acupuncture can be used in conjunction with other therapies, such as physical therapy and medication, to enhance the overall effectiveness of treatment. Overall, acupuncture is a valuable and evidence-based approach for managing chronic low back pain.
Sensory integration therapy has been shown to provide significant benefits for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This therapeutic approach focuses on addressing the sensory processing difficulties commonly experienced by individuals with ASD. By utilizing a variety of sensory activities and exercises, such as swinging, brushing, and deep pressure touch, sensory integration therapy aims to help children with ASD better regulate their sensory input and improve their overall sensory processing abilities. Research has indicated that this therapy can lead to improvements in various areas, including social interaction, communication skills, attention, and behavior. Additionally, sensory integration therapy has been found to enhance motor skills, coordination, and body awareness in children with ASD. Overall, this therapy offers a promising intervention for children with ASD, providing them with the necessary tools to navigate and engage with their environment more effectively.
Therapists employ various strategies to effectively address muscle imbalances in runners and mitigate the risk of overuse injuries. Firstly, they conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify any asymmetries or weaknesses in the runner's musculature. This assessment may involve evaluating muscle strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Based on the findings, therapists then develop a tailored treatment plan that incorporates exercises targeting specific muscle groups to restore balance and improve overall function. These exercises may include strengthening exercises for weak muscles, stretching exercises for tight muscles, and proprioceptive training to enhance neuromuscular control. Additionally, therapists may utilize manual therapy techniques such as massage or myofascial release to alleviate muscle tension and promote tissue healing. By addressing muscle imbalances through a combination of targeted exercises and manual therapy, therapists can effectively prevent overuse injuries in runners.