The brain, spinal cord, and nerves make up the nervous system. Together, they control all the workings of the body. When something goes wrong with a part of your nervous system, you can have trouble moving, speaking, swallowing, breathing, or learning. You can also have problems with your memory, senses, or mood. There are more than 600 neurological diseases.
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Multiple Sclerosis (MS): MS is a disease in which your body’s immune system destroys the protective sheath (myelin) that covers your nerves. Damage to this sheath causes difficulty/inability for your brain to communicate with your spinal cord and other areas of your body. There is no cure for MS however, Physical Therapy may help manage symptoms & slow down the progression of the disease.
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Parkinson’s: Parkinson’s is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects your movement. There is no cure, but in some cases, Physical Therapy can be beneficial to focus on balance, stretching, and exercise to address the deficits.
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Stroke: A stroke happens when blood flow to a part of the brain stops. A stroke is sometimes called a “brain attack.” If blood flow is stopped for longer than a few seconds, the brain cannot get blood and oxygen. Brain cells can die, causing permanent damage.
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Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): A traumatic brain injury refers to damage to the brain caused by an external force, leading to temporary or permanent impairment of cognitive, physical, and psychosocial functions. Common causes include falls, motor vehicle accidents, and violence. Symptoms can vary widely depending on the severity of the injury, ranging from mild concussions to severe neurological deficits. Prompt medical evaluation and treatment are crucial in managing TBIs effectively.