Neuromuscular Conditions and Diseases

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable disease that impacts the brain and spinal cord. Lesions disrupt the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and body. The communication signal interruptions cause a range of symptoms such as numbness, tingling, mood changes, memory problems, pain, fatigue, blindness and paralysis. These symptoms may be temporary or long lasting.

Treatment

Ongoing rehabilitation and care is key to manage multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms, improve function and help you stay mobile, active and safe.

Our rehabilitation specialists can address issues you may have with mobility, personal care, driving, functioning at home and work, and participating in leisure activities so you can lead a fuller life.

Our team includes physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists.

• Physical therapists focus on walking and mobility, strength, balance, posture, fatigue and pain related to MS to promote your independence and safety. They also help you with urinary and bladder issues. Physical therapy can prevent complications such as muscle weakness and tightening that can limit your ability to move well. The goal is to help you achieve and maintain the highest level of function possible.
• Occupational therapists help you with modifications to enhance your independence, productivity and safety at home, play or work. They can also teach you how to use adaptive tools and devices to make everyday tasks easier.
• Speech-language pathologists evaluate and treat any difficulties you're having with speech and swallowing affected by MS. They also have help with thinking, memory and other cognitive issues.

Guillian-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disorder that causes a rapid onset of symptoms, which can range from brief weakness to paralysis. In GBS, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and damages healthy nerves in the peripheral nervous system, which are the nerves that branch out from the brain and spinal cord.

Treatment

At North Kansas City Hospital, we provide comprehensive rehabilitation therapy to help you prevent or treat complications of GBS and regain strength so you can get back to your daily activities. After treatment for GBS, you may have lingering weakness and nerve damage. Recovery can be slow. Physical therapy can help keep your muscles flexible, increase strength and prevent muscle shortening that restricts movement. You also may be given blood thinners and compression cuffs to prevent blood clots. Through occupational therapy, you'll learn new ways to complete daily living functions and work demands. You'll also receive assistive devices or other adaptive equipment and technology if needed.