Autoimmune disease is becoming increasingly more prevalent. Although the exact reasons for this increase are unknown, it’s likely multifactorial. Physical therapy has been important for a long time in managing autoimmune conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) that have an obvious orthopaedic impact. However, physical therapists must also understand how other autoimmune disorders (such as Crohn’s Disease, Leaky Gut Syndrome, Celiac Disease, and Ulcerative Colitis) can directly and indirectly impact the plan of care and treatment recommendations.
From a physical therapy standpoint, understanding all types of autoimmune disorders and how they impact nutrient absorption is critical to positive physical therapy outcomes for any musculoskeletal diagnosis.
The following video is a portion of a lecture created for the New Hampshire American Physical Therapy Association (NHAPTA). Kim Steinbarger, PT, MHS, DHSc Candidate and I discuss the role of physical therapy in managing autoimmune disorders and how autoimmune disorders can directly and indirectly impact physical therapy treatment plans. This lecture was specifically for rehabilitation professionals, but it contains important information for anyone impacted by autoimmune disease.
If you or a loved one need help managing an autoimmune disease, please contact your local physical therapist for an assessment. The American Physical Therapy Association offers a wonderful resource to help find a physical therapist in your area.
Have you or a loved one been impacted by an autoimmune disease? Please share below.
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