What is Motor Neuron Disease (MND)?

Motor Neuron Disease (MND) refers to a group of rare, progressive neurological disorders that affect motor neurons, the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movements. MND leads to the degeneration and eventual death of motor neurons, impairing the ability to send messages from the brain to the muscles through the spinal cord. These messages are essential for basic bodily functions such as walking, swallowing, talking, and breathing. As the motor neurons deteriorate, muscle weakness and atrophy occur, often becoming visibly noticeable.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for MND; it is considered a life-limiting condition and for many people can impact quality of life.

Physiotherapy, however, can play a key role in the management of MND. A physiotherapist can help provide guidance and support in maintaining function and independence. Read on to learn more about MND and how physiotherapists can contribute to your MND care.

Types of Motor Neurons Involved in MND:

Motor neurons work together to transmit messages between the brain and muscles. These neurons are classified into two types:

1. Upper Motor Neurons: These neurons originate in the brain and transmit signals to the lower motor neurons in the spinal cord.
   
2. Lower Motor Neurons: These neurons begin in the spinal cord and relay signals to the muscles. They receive messages from the upper motor neurons to instruct muscles to move, walk, swallow, talk, and breathe.

Types of MND

How Can Physiotherapy Help MND?

Motor Neuron Disease (MND) impairs the brain and spinal cord’s ability to control muscles, leading to stiffness, muscle tightness, and difficulty with daily activities. A skilled physiotherapist can provide valuable support through guidance, manual therapy, airway clearance, balance training, recommendations for assistive devices, and tailored exercises. These interventions help manage symptoms, maintain functional capacity, and promote independence for as long as possible.

Although the motor neurons controlling muscles weaken and the muscle itself cannot be repaired, exercise remains crucial for preserving strength in the unaffected muscles. It also offers other several benefits, including:

• Maintaining muscle elasticity
• Improving joint range of motion
• Preventing muscle tightening and contractures

Although Motor Neuron Disease is a life-limiting condition, at UniquePhysio we are committed to helping preserve your functional capacity and support your independence for as long as possible. Regardless of the type of MND, we can assist with movement, airway clearance, and managing your symptoms to improve your quality of life.

Please contact us to book in for a consultation with one of our Physiotherapists.