After a neurological event such as a stroke or traumatic brain injury, but also in the case of diseases such as Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis (MS), a person’s ability to move can be severely impaired. To improve or regain lost abilities, intensive movement therapy is required, which is ideally planned and carried out by therapists with in-depth neurological expertise.
Patients’ impairments vary widely. Therefore, therapy requires a personalised approach that is tailored to the specific needs of each individual. In our clinic, we focus on physiotherapy and occupational therapy in movement therapy, which are supplemented by co-therapies from various therapy disciplines (e.g. speech therapy or neuropsychology) as well as other medical services.
Focus of physiotherapy
Physiotherapy focuses on the restoration and improvement of physical functions and movement abilities, which is supported by various therapeutic robotics. It includes various areas such as:
Joint mobilisation and stabilisation: A central component of physiotherapy is the mobilisation and stabilisation of the joints. Targeted exercises are particularly important for patients with spasticity or stiffness. These therapies help to mobilise joints and improve stability.
Muscle strengthening: Specially tailored exercises are used to rebuild weakened muscles and improve endurance. The use of robotic devices such as the Omego, Dynasystem and SensoPro can support this process by enabling targeted and controlled muscle exercises.
Balance and gait training: Physiotherapists use both traditional methods and innovative therapeutic robotics such as the SensoPro, BalanceTutor and CMill to design effective training programmes. These devices help to improve balance, stabilise gait and give back patients a sense of security.
Focus of occupational therapy
Occupational therapy focuses on people’s ability to act and contributes to improving health and quality of life. It aims to enable people to participate in the activities of daily life and in society. It includes, among other things:
Support in relearning everyday activities: Support in the areas of self-care (such as personal hygiene, mobility), productivity (such as work, household) and leisure (such as hobbies, social life).
Training in skills relevant to everyday life: Guidance in improving physical, cognitive, emotional and social skills.
Clarification and evaluation of the ability to act: Analysis and assessment of the ability to act in the areas mentioned.
Selection and adaptation of aiding tools: Development and adaptation of splints, aids and everyday objects, home or workplace to increase independence and autonomy.
Counselling: Support for clients, relatives and employers with regard to maintaining or improving their ability to act as well as health promotion and prevention.
Difference between physiotherapy and occupational therapy
Physiotherapy and occupational therapy are both essential components of movement therapy at cereneo. However, they have different focuses. Physiotherapy focuses on restoring and improving physical functions and movement skills, including measures such as joint mobilization, muscle strengthening and gait and balance training.
Occupational therapy, on the other hand, focuses on restoring the ability to act in everyday life and improving quality of life. It helps patients to carry out everyday activities such as personal hygiene and household tasks independently and to find their way in social and professional contexts. This includes practical exercises as well as the adaptation of aids and counselling for better integration into everyday life.
Interdisciplinary approach for optimal rehabilitation
A comprehensive toolbox of therapy methods and a clear, innovative and interdisciplinary approach are required to carry out effective and efficient movement therapy. Therapies should be as flexible and individualised as our patients in order to meet their changing needs during rehabilitation.
