Physical Therapy: Neurological Rehabilitation

What does the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test primarily measure in neurological patients?

Functional mobility, balance, and fall risk by timing a patient as they stand, walk 3 meters, turn, and sit back down.

What is the primary respiratory concern for a patient with a C4 spinal cord injury?

Diaphragm paralysis and potential ventilator dependence due to the loss of phrenic nerve innervation.

Which neurodegenerative condition is the LSVT BIG exercise program specifically designed to treat?

Parkinson's Disease, focusing on high-amplitude movements to counteract bradykinesia and hypokinesia.

What is the simplest assistive device used to increase the base of support for a patient with mild balance deficits?

A single-point cane.

Define neuroplasticity in the context of neurological rehabilitation.

The brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections in response to learning or injury.

What is a common non-pharmacological strategy to manage fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis?

Energy conservation techniques, activity pacing, and scheduled rest periods throughout the day.

What functional hand movement is characteristic of a C6 spinal cord injury?

Tenodesis grasp, where wrist extension causes passive finger flexion to allow for gripping.

Describe Brunnstrom Stage 3 of motor recovery following a stroke.

Spasticity reaches its peak and the patient can perform voluntary movement, but only within basic limb synergies.

What is the primary requirement for a patient to participate in Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT)?

The patient must have a minimum amount of active movement, typically 10 degrees of active wrist and finger extension.

A score of less than 45 on the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) generally indicates what clinical finding?

An increased risk of falling and a potential need for an assistive device.