Up Front
Physical,
occupational, and speech therapy are the main topics of our cover story in
this winter issue of The Motivator. MSAA is a strong proponent of improving
quality of life for individuals affected by MS, and this can be done in many
ways. Our client services team and regional support staff make great efforts
to encourage our clients to participate, if able, in the different types
of therapy, as well as exercise, to help alleviate some of the symptoms,
improve one’s abilities, and lift one’s spirits.
I can speak with some personal empathy to these points, particularly in regard to physical therapy and rehabilitation. I have needed extensive physical therapy and rehabilitation after numerous orthopedic surgeries on my knees and ankles from football injuries in both high school and college. I remember the beginning of the cycle right after a surgery and just how painful and discouraging it was trying to move the joint even a small amount. As the days progressed and I stayed with the program, my spirits picked up at the same time as my ambulatory range of motion would improve. With each new step I was able to take, or the more weight I could bear, I knew it was worth whatever discomfort or trouble I had to experience.
I witnessed my son with his brittle bone disease (osteogenesis imperfecta) endure more than a dozen bone surgeries starting when he was just a year and a half old. Each time, physical therapy was the only way to restore his independence. He’s 21 now but just this past summer he shattered his kneecap, so this feeling is still fresh in my mind as I write this column.
The value of physical therapy to rejuvenate dormant muscles or expand the range of motion cannot be understated. This is not always easy, and doing so takes time, effort, and a certain amount of determination. But despite the work involved, physical therapy frequently yields positive results, and often the people at the rehabilitation facility can make the time enjoyable.
We are fortunate to have seen so many advances in this field, with science and computer technology playing a much bigger role. The regimen for improving one’s physical well-being is much more effective than years ago. For some, physical and other types of therapy may help to return a certain amount of independence, while doing wonders for the mind and mood. Physical and other types of therapy can dramatically improve one’s quality of life, and we hope this feature article encourages many readers to explore the possibilities of treatment.
