Neuro Physiotherapy

Ellen Green M.Sc Grad.Dip.Phys., M.C.S.P.

Chartered Physiotherapist
Registered with the Health Professions Council

Ellen qualified in 1988 and has specialised in the field of adult neurological rehabilitation since 1990.

Ellen completed a Masters degree at the University of Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff, in neurological rehabilitation.

After working at Gloucester Royal Hospital in acute neurology and long-term neurological rehabilitation, Ellen began work on the Willows Stroke Unit at Evesham Community Hospital where she was the lead neurophysiotherapist for the Community Trust.

She commenced private practice in 2001.

Neurophysiotherapy

Neurophysiotherapy is the rehabilitation and management of diseases and injury affecting the nervous system.

Each patient is assessed and a specific programme of intervention is outlined, taking into consideration discussion about individual requirements and goals. This ensures that the treatment is relevant and encourages the commitment necessary for achievement.

Treatment approach

Each person with a neurological problem will present with individual symptoms. An initial assessment is necessary in order to ascertain how the symptoms have manifested. Although there will be physical difficulties arising directly from the neurological incident, secondary and compensatory consequences regularly arise. Defining the principal cause(s) of the impairment/disability is foremost in determining the treatment approach.

These treatment methods aim to restore/improve the body's natural movement sequences by re-educating the body's response to motor (movement) and sensory stimuli.

Although they all involve a hands-on approach, full commitment of the person to the treatment is paramount in order to fulfil their potential. Neurological rehabilitation at every stage is a team effort.

The involvement of family and carers is encouraged both in the clinic setting and at home. To optimise the treatment carried out during sessions, written advice and appropriate exercises are provided.

Frequency of treatment is specific to each patient and can be determined through re-assessment and discussion in respect of the response to treatment.

Treatment methods

The treatment methods employed include the concepts of:

The Bobath approach -through regular repetition of accurate movements and postures, undamaged areas of the brain can learn to take over from the damaged nerves. This process can help in restoring active movement.
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techniques- specific exercise patterns to help restore natural sequences of movement.
Motor Relearning (Carr & Shepherd)- elements of a functional movement are broken down and practised individually.
Neuromuscular stimulation- involves the application of skin electrodes to stimulate the appropriate nerve to re-educate the muscle activity.
Hydrotherapy- water based treatment using the properties of water such as buoyancy.
Vestibular rehabilitation- exercises to assist with problems of balance and dizzyness.
Gym based exercise programmes- these are individually designed to target areas of weakness and assist in restoring cardiac fitness and maintaining physical condition.

Neurological conditions commonly treated

Stroke
Multiple sclerosis
Head injury
Spinal injury
Parkinson's disease
Peripheral nerve injury
Vestibular problems

Non-neurological conditions treated

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). Treated with the Epley manoeuvre.

Referral

Referrals are received from consultants, GPs, solicitors and case management companies.

Registered with private health insurers including BUPA, AXAPPP, CIGNA.

Other health professionals, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists and osteopaths who do not specialist in neurology also make referrals.

There is also self-referral by people who make direct contact with the practice.

If you have an enquiry about a referral or treatment, please do not hesitate to contact the practice.

Ellen works in a clinical setting, in hydrotherapy and attends Herefordshire fitness centres such as Halo, Wye Leisure and Homer Park. Hydrotherapy and gym sessions are made by prior arrangement.

Clinic days are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at Kyrle House.