Treatment Options For Huntington's Disease

Physical Therapy

Those with Huntington’s disease eventually need help working on their strength, balance, flexibility, and coordination. Physical therapy allows patients to learn about their muscles and how the disease is affecting them, which makes it easier for them to understand their needs concerning exercise. They will work with a physical therapist to create a fitness regimen that may help to keep them mobile for as long as possible. Enhancing the patient’s mobility is also important in reducing their risk of falling. Therapists also put a lot of emphasis on posture since poor posture often increases the severity of the disease-related movement problems patients tend to develop. As the patient’s movement issues and mobility change, their therapist will work with them to reevaluate the regimen and make the necessary changes, so this therapy continues to offer optimal benefits.

Keep going to understand more about the treatment options for Huntington's patients.

Speech Therapy

Huntington's disease affects both swallowing and speech, and the muscles in the throat and mouth are often significantly impaired. This causes issues with control that can make it hard for patients to speak and they may choke when trying to swallow. Thankfully, speech therapy can assist with these issues. A therapist works with patients to aid them in improving their speech, if it is possible. If not, therapists can also teach patients how to use communication devices, which includes various instruments, such as a board with pictures of regular activities and items. The patient would point to what they need to help them to communicate with loved ones. With swallowing, some exercises may help to improve the muscles involved in this function, which the therapist will help the patient to perform.

Continue reading to learn about another therapy with the ability to help Huntington's disease patients.