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Kennedy's Disease
Kennedys disease is an inherited neuromuscular disease which is characterised by the gradual deterioration of motor neurons. Motor neurons are nerve cells involved with the control of muscles. As a result of the deterioration of motor neurons, Kennedys disease causes muscle weakness and wasting. At Liverpool Neuro Physio, physiotherapy treatment is used to help reduce the physical impairments associated with Kennedys disease.
- What is Kennedys disease?
- Effects of Kennedys disease
- Physiotherapy treatment for Kennedys disease
- Benefits of physiotherapy treatment for Kennedys disease
What is Kennedys disease?
Kennedys disease is a progressive neuromuscular disease which is characterised by the gradual weakening and wasting of muscles, particularly in the arms and legs. Kennedys disease is an inherited disease affecting the male population only.
Kennedys disease is caused by a genetic mutation affecting motor neurons. A motor neuron is a nerve cell involved with the movement and control of muscles. Due to the genetic mutation in Kennedys disease motor neurons deteriorate and die, resulting in muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis.
At Liverpool Neuro Physio we understand that Kennedys disease is a progressive condition affecting your function and mobility. Therefore at Liverpool Neuro Physio we can provide you with physiotherapy treatment which can help maximise your independence for as long as possible.
Effects of Kennedys disease
Effects of Kennedys disease often include:
- Muscle weakness, particularly in the muscles of the shoulder girdle and limbs.
- Muscle wastage.
- Weakness in the muscles involved in speech, swallowing and breathing, resulting in shortness of breath, difficulty in breathing and swallowing.
- Cramping and twitching of muscles, particularly those of the extremities such as the hands and feet.
- Loss of function in the limbs.
- Fatigue.
- Muscle tremor affecting the hands.
At Liverpool Neuro Physio we understand that Kennedys disease is a slow and progressive disease for which there is no cure, therefore the physiotherapy treatment we can provide you with is aimed at managing your condition at the current stage and supporting you throughout the progression of your disease.
Physiotherapy treatment for Kennedys disease
At Liverpool Neuro Physio your physiotherapist will work with you to produce a programme of treatment, in which the goals and targets set are specifically designed for the management of your symptoms.
The treatment of Kennedys disease varies from person to person depending upon their symptoms. Physiotherapy treatment often includes:
- Passive stretching techniques and stretching exercises to help to elongate and tone muscles as well as maintain muscle strength. Stretching exercises can also help lessen the incidence of muscle spasms and cramps, as well as assisting in achieving a greater range of movement throughout joints.
- Strengthening exercises to maintain muscle strength and minimise the occurrence of muscle wastage.
- Breathing exercises and chest clearance techniques to maintain a clear chest and reduce the risk of chest infections.
- Gait training and balance re-education in order to improve your balance and the coordination of your limbs during walking.
- Assessment and advice on the use of walking aids or orthotics to improve your mobility and functional independence.
- Referral to other specialist health professionals, such as speech and language therapists and occupational therapists. As your Kennedys disease progresses your needs will change therefore you may benefit from the assistance and treatment from other health professions.
Benefits of physiotherapy treatment for Kennedys disease
Benefits of physiotherapy treatment for Kennedys disease depend upon the presentation of your symptoms and the progression of your illness, however below is a list of common benefits our patients' experience:
- Enhanced and maintained mobility
- Reduced muscle and joint stiffness
- Reduced risk of developing a chest infection
- Reduced pain levels
- Reduced anxiety
- Improved confidence
- Improved independence
- Improved quality of life
To arrange an appointment or to speak to one of our specialists, call us on 0151 558 0188 or email office@liverpoolneurophysio.co.uk.