Many people think of physiotherapy primarily as a treatment for muscles, joints and bones. But did you know that physiotherapy can also have positive effects on the brain? Special exercises and techniques can promote neuroplastic changes – that is, they can stimulate the brain to reconnect and reorganize itself. This ability is particularly important in the rehabilitation of stroke patients or people with neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s.
What is neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity describes the brain’s amazing ability to adapt and change over the course of a lifetime. Whether through learning, training or rehabilitation – the brain can establish new connections between nerve cells and thus restore or compensate for functions. Physiotherapeutic measures that train specific movement sequences stimulate certain areas of the brain and thus support the brain’s plasticity.
Exercise keeps the brain fit
Regular exercise plays a crucial role in staying mentally fit and counteracting cognitive decline. Studies show that physical activity improves blood flow to the brain, increases oxygen supply and promotes the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. This helps to improve concentration, memory and general mental performance. For older people in particular, regular exercise can reduce the risk of dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. Coordinative and cognitive challenges, as integrated into physiotherapy, keep the brain active and flexible.
Physiotherapy to support neurological rehabilitation
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in neurological rehabilitation, especially for conditions such as:
- Stroke: Targeted movement exercises can activate affected areas of the brain and restore their functionality.
- Parkinson’s disease: Coordination and balance exercises help to improve mobility and quality of life.
- Multiple sclerosis: Physiotherapy can help to maintain mobility and reduce muscle stiffness.
According to a study by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection, around 25,000 people suffer a stroke every year, around 70% of whom require physiotherapy to regain their motor skills (source: Ministry of Social Affairs, 2023).
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How physiotherapy affects the brain
Physiotherapeutic interventions can influence brain activity in a variety of ways, including through:
- Movement training: Repeated movement sequences promote the learning of new movement patterns and strengthen neuronal networks.
- Sensory training: Specific stimuli help the brain to regain lost or impaired functions.
- Coordination exercises: These increase cognitive processing and fine motor skills.
Physiotherapy as an opportunity to improve your quality of life
Targeted physiotherapy treatment can not only improve motor skills, but also increase general well-being. Patients often report a better body feeling, more independence and an increased zest for life.
Would you like to find out more?
Our specialized therapists at Mediphysio will be happy to help you. Find out more about our neurological occupational therapy and make an appointment to start your individual therapy.
Conclusion
Physiotherapy is much more than just muscle training. It offers opportunities to actively support the brain and achieve long-term improvements. Whether after a stroke or with neurological disorders – you can strengthen your physical and mental abilities in the long term through targeted exercises.
Sources:
- Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection: Stroke statistics 2023, www.sozialministerium.at
- “Neuroplasticity in rehabilitation” – Journal of Neurology, Issue 2022
- “Exercise and cognitive health” – Austrian Society of Neurology, 2023
