Physical therapists examine need for best practices for rehabilitation
ALEXANDRIA, VA, October 13, 2009 — Physical therapists are
calling for definitive vestibular screenings and assessment measures for
US military service members with blast-induced traumatic brain injuries
(BITBI). According to a Scholarly Opinion Piece in the September issue
of Physical Therapy, the scientific journal of the American
Physical Therapy Association (APTA), vestibular rehabilitation must be
included as part of successful treatment for those who have been injured
by blasts and experience vestibular symptoms such as vertigo, gaze
instability, and motion intolerance.
"Because vestibular pathology affects the individual's balance and
sense of motion, definitive treatment guidelines could have a tremendous
impact on the success of rehabilitation for a patient with BITBI," says
lead researcher US Army Captain and APTA member Matthew R. Scherer, PT,
MPT, NCS.
According to Scherer, although there is limited scientific and
medical literature available about the management of orthopedic,
integumentary, neurocognitive, and neurobehavioral effects in survivors
of blast, there is even less research addressing the vestibular symptoms
of these injuries. Scherer emphasizes the need for clinicians and
researchers who work with this patient population to develop screening
and assessment measures that will enable them to formulate treatment
strategies to reduce disability.
"The rehabilitation community has a tremendous opportunity to
contribute to the growing body of knowledge by investigating mechanisms
of injury and effective recovery strategies," said Scherer. "It's time
to gather as much information as possible and create clinical best
practices so that we can maximize the recovery of our military service
members who have been injured by blasts."
Physical therapists are highly educated, licensed health care
professionals who can help patients reduce pain and improve or restore
mobility -- in many cases without expensive surgery or the side effects
of prescription medications. APTA represents more than 72,000 physical
therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students of physical
therapy nationwide. Its purpose is to improve the health and quality of
life of individuals through the advancement of physical therapist
practice, education, and research. In most states, patients can make an
appointment directly with a physical therapist, without a physician
referral. Learn more about conditions physical therapists can treat and
find a physical therapist in your area at www.moveforwardpt.com.