A better understanding of Huntingtons Disease and the part Physio can have
Huntingtons disease is close to my heart, seeing a close family member walk the journey with her family and as a Physiotherapist here in the Sutherland Shire, having expert knowledge of the condition and its course. Huntingtons Disease is a rare progressive genetic neurodegenerative disorder caused by an abnormality in ones DNA that leads to the creation of abnormal proteins in the body which then leads to a movement disorder. Every person has 2 copies of the Huntington Gene which produces the Huntington Protien, the role of the Huntington Protien is not fully understood, however it is thought it plays a role in the development and health of the nervous system.
How many people have Huntingtons Disease in Australia?
Approximately 1,800 people in Australia live with the challenges of Huntingtons Disease however thousands more are at risk of developing Huntingtons Disease as it is a genetic condition passed down through generations and every offspring of an individual with Huntingtons Disease has a 50% chance of developing the condition or they pass it on to their offspring.
What are the signs and symptoms of Huntingtons Disease?
Table 1. Some of the symptoms associated with Huntingtons disease
What treatments are there for Huntingtons Disease?
Huntingtons Disease requires the care of a multidicspinary team inclusive of your Doctor, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Speech Pathologist, Psychologist and Dietician. After diagnosis lifespan can vary substantially and the goal of your therapy team should be to enable you to live life to your best through the journey. The most common cause of death among Huntingtons Disease sufferers is Pneumonia, the following factors contribute to the development of Pneumonia: Decreased Physical Activity, Decreased Airation of the Lung (Deep Breathing), Improper positioning when eating or when ill (lying down), Difficulty swallowing leading to aspiration and improper foods selected to match swallowing ability also leading to aspiration. All of these factors contribute to the development of Pneumonia and all of them can be addressed by a multidisciplinary team. Your Doctor may prescribe medications to help moderate the symptoms of the disease while the rest of the team will help you maintain your independence and capacity for as long as possible while striving to maintain excellent quality of life which is specific to the tasks and goals that mean the most to you.
What can Aevum do for me?
Our compassionate Physiotherapists, Exercise Physiologists and Occupational Therapists are here to help maintain your physical capacity for as long as possible. Here at Aevum we have a fully equipped gym to suite your needs and any stage of the disease we can also offer in-house and off-site sessions to suite your goals. Our equipment is designed to be easily accessible and support your needs. If you are looking for an experienced team to work with and support your goals CONTACT US to learn more and make an appointment.
Resources:
https://australian.physio/inmotion/5-facts-about-physiotherapy-and-huntingtons-disease
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/huntingtons-disease
https://www.science.org.au/curious/people-medicine/huntingtons-disease