22/08/2024
Individualised movement plan for POTS, gets a big ✅️ from us! You can read a bit more below 👇
A group of doctors and physical therapists recently proposed a framework for approaching exercise rehabilitation in POTS and related autonomic disorders based on their collective experience working with our patient community. Rather than using rigid one size fits all protocols that many patients can't complete, they suggest: 1) comprehensive evaluation of the individuals patient's physiology and needs ; 2) individualized starting points for rehab based on the patient's physiology and needs; 3) the patient determining whether they are feeling well enough to advance to the next stage of rehabilitation; and 4) adapting commonly used rehab techniques to individual patient needs. Importantly, they note that exercise is only one part of an overall approach to treatment, which typically includes medication and other non-pharmacological measures as well.
We think discussing these concepts and sharing their experiences using an approach to rehab that is adapted to individual patient needs is an important step in the right direction, although understanding how this approach actually impacts patients will require more research.
Dysautonomia International is currently funding a study at University of Utah exploring the biological mechanisms of exercise intolerance in POTS. Understanding the biological mechanisms that cause exercise intolerance in POTS will help us develop treatments that address those mechanisms more precisely, which should lead to improved exercise tolerance and overall improved ability to function in our everyday lives.
Getting physical therapists and other rehab professionals trained on how to safely and effectively implement dysautonomia rehabilitation techniques will also require significant professional education efforts. Most dysautonomia patients are not being referred to skilled rehab professionals at all, and when we are referred, the rehab professionals we are seeing are often unfamiliar with our diagnoses or how to help us. Dysautonomia International is trying to change this by offering several in person and virtual clinician education programs throughout the year.
Read the journal article here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2590109524000648
You can support Dysautonomia International's research and clinician education programs by making a contribution at https://www.CureDys.org or hosting a Facebook or IG fundraiser at https://www.facebook.com/fund/DysautonomiaInternational