The MMSE is specifically designed to assess cognitive function and can be useful in evaluating cognitive deficits and changes in a patient with a TBI. The Rancho Los Amigos Scale is more focused on the levels of consciousness and recovery stages in TBI, while the FIM assesses overall functional independence and the Berg Balance Scale is used for balance assessment.
Autonomic dysreflexia is a medical emergency common in patients with SCI above the T6 level. The immediate action is to assist the patient in sitting upright to help reduce blood pressure and identify and address the cause of the dysreflexia, such as a full bladder or pressure sores. Applying hot packs or increasing exercise intensity can exacerbate the condition.
For patients with multiple sclerosis, measuring the reduction in the number of falls and improvement in balance scores directly assesses the effectiveness of balance interventions. These outcomes are relevant to the primary goal of enhancing balance and reducing fall risk.
Dual-task training, which involves performing a motor task while simultaneously engaging in a cognitive task, is effective in addressing gait disturbances in patients with Parkinson’s disease. This approach helps improve balance and walking ability by challenging the patient to integrate cognitive and motor functions, which are often impaired in Parkinson’s disease.
For patients with a recent stroke and significant hemiparesis, the immediate focus should be on enhancing safety and independence in ADLs. This helps improve quality of life and ensures that the patient can manage basic tasks despite functional limitations. Restoring full motor or sensory function may be longer-term goals and might not be feasible initially.
