[Multidisciplinary Management and Neurorehabilitation of Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis]

Acta Med Croatica. 2016 Apr;70(2):111-6.
[Article in Croatian]

Abstract

Patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis require comprehensive care with a multidisciplinary approach, which is individually adjusted to each patient. The goals of neurorehabilitation should be adjusted to the stage of disease. In early stages, physical therapy is focused on preserving and optimizing motor and respiratory function. At this stage, family should be involved to partake in desired activities and be informed regarding the natural course of the disease. In late stages, physical therapy is focused on preventing respiratory complications and contractures, and orthotics may also be recommended. The onset of dysarthria should trigger swallowing and pulmonary function testing. Swallowing maneuvers should be tried at the onset of symptoms, later feeding tubes or percutaneous gastrostomy tube is necessary. Noninvasive mechanical ventilation may delay the need of tracheostomy and invasive mechanical ventilation. The key objectives of multidisciplinary teams are to optimize medical care, facilitate communication, and thus to improve the quality of care and quality of life.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / therapy*
  • Comprehensive Health Care / organization & administration*
  • Disease Management
  • Disease Progression
  • Humans
  • Neurological Rehabilitation / methods*
  • Pain Management / methods
  • Patient Care Team / organization & administration*
  • Quality of Life