Consultant Physiotherapist Fran Brander from National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery discusses research into upper limb treatment post brain injury, arguing for funding, patient selection, and the application of technology in therapy. She emphasizes the importance of tailored exercise programs, intensiveness in rehabilitation services, and the balance between hands-on and hands-off approaches in neurophysiotherapy.
Specialized therapy for upper limb impairments post-stroke emphasizes high-intensity, individualized treatment over a short period.
Advanced technology like robotics enhances therapy quality, providing diverse activities to engage and motivate patients.
Deep dives
Development of Specialized Therapy for Neurological Conditions
The podcast discusses the development of specialized therapy for neurological conditions, highlighting a program at Queen Square in London that focuses on individualized therapy for patients with upper limb impairments post-stroke or due to neurological conditions. The therapy program aims to provide high-intensity therapy over a three-week period, focusing on the intensity and dosage that could make a significant difference in upper limb recovery.
Incorporating Advanced Technology in Rehabilitation
The program incorporates advanced technology such as robotics and specialized equipment like the Diego, Pablo, Amadeo, and Myro systems to assist in arm movements and de-weighting during therapy. These technological advancements are aimed at enhancing the quality and intensity of therapy sessions, providing a diverse range of activities to keep patients engaged and motivated.
Importance of Interdisciplinary Collaboration
The podcast emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in rehabilitation programs, showcasing how therapists work closely with occupational therapists, rehabilitation assistants, and patients to create a cohesive and engaging environment. The focus on individualized treatment plans and holistic care underscores the significance of a team approach in delivering effective therapy.
Exploring Possibilities for Expansion in Rehabilitation
The discussion extends to exploring the potential application of similar intensive therapy programs in other areas of rehabilitation, such as aphasia, cognitive rehabilitation, gait, and balance. The podcast highlights the need for more aspirational research to push the boundaries of current rehabilitation practices and provide optimal care for patients through innovative and intensive therapy approaches.
Fran Brander is a Consultant Physiotherapist at the renowned National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery. She is the lead physiotherapist in the Upper Limb Program and chats about research into clinical practice, being ambitious in our treatment of the upper limb post brain injury and philosophy of upper limb treatment. 3.23 - Introduction 4.33 - Career pathway 6.42 - Consult Physiotherapists (UK) 10.13 - National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery - Queen Square London 12.00 - Rehabilitation Units in the UK - Levels 14.44 - UCL Upper Limb Service 18.18 - Arguing for funding 21.42 - Patient selection 24.37 - Being a national health service 26.55 - Program structure 32.44 - Hands on or hands off 35.47 - Tech in the program 40.28 - What is the most important component? 44.15 - Application of the model to other services
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