Physical Therapy for Ataxia

Ataxia presents unique challenges related to coordination, balance, and mobility, making daily activities such as walking, reaching, and grasping difficult. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges and improving overall function and quality of life for individuals living with ataxia.

Understanding Ataxia

Ataxia is most-commonly a neurological symptom associated with stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury, characterized by impaired coordination and ultimately affecting daily tasks such as walking and reaching. It can also be a condition in and of itself, such as with Spinocerebellar Ataxia and Friedreich’s Ataxia, again with primary symptom being impaired coordination. Regardless of the exact condition, all individuals with ataxia often experience difficulties with balance and may have a staggering or unsteady gait, making it challenging to perform daily activities independently and often leading to frequent falls.

Getting Your Steps In!

Walking can be a struggle with ataxia, even with your friend or family members’ help. Dr. Chuck will provide skilled, hands-on assistance while walking alongside of you to ensure safety while also allowing you to self-correct and self-right any losses of balance to promote your self-correction skills.

Emphasis on coordination exercises

With coordination being the primary symptom of ataxia, Dr. Chuck will instruct you in coordination exercises aimed to improve motor control, balance, and proprioception, ultimately helping you improve confidence and independence in your movements.

Strengthening and balance work

Dr. Chuck aims to strengthen key muscle groups for stability and incorporate functional exercises for daily activities. Dr. Chuck utilizes static and dynamic exercises, coordination drills, vestibular training, and sensory integration. His personalized approach ensures your unique needs are met, and he provides continuous support to track progress and adjust therapy plans, helping you improve independence and confidence. 

Fall Recovery and Floor Transfers