Comprehensive Support for Individuals with Leigh Syndrome

How Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Can Help Individuals with Leigh Syndrome

What is Leigh Syndrome?

Leigh Syndrome, also known as subacute necrotizing encephalomyelopathy, is a severe neurological disorder that typically affects children, often beginning in infancy or early childhood. It is caused by defects in the mitochondrial DNA or nuclear DNA, leading to impairments in the body’s ability to produce energy at the cellular level. Key symptoms of Leigh Syndrome include:

• Motor and coordination issues: Progressive loss of muscle control, leading to problems with movement and balance.

• Developmental delays: Slowed or regressed cognitive and motor development.

• Respiratory complications: Respiratory failure is a common issue, requiring medical interventions.

• Seizures: Seizures are prevalent in individuals with Leigh Syndrome due to the impact on the brain.

• Growth impairment: Failure to thrive and delayed growth.

• Neurodegeneration: Progressive deterioration of motor and cognitive function.

Leigh Syndrome is often diagnosed through genetic testing, and while there is no cure, early intervention with therapies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

How Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Can Help

Physiotherapy

• Motor skills development: Our physiotherapists help improve movement and coordination in children and adults with Leigh Syndrome. Physiotherapy sessions focus on strengthening muscles, improving posture, and enhancing balance to promote mobility.

• Posture and alignment: Tailored exercises help individuals maintain proper posture and alignment, preventing secondary complications such as joint contractures or scoliosis.

• Gait training: Physiotherapists provide strategies to help improve walking abilities and compensate for mobility issues, including the use of mobility aids when necessary.

Occupational Therapy

• Daily living activities: Occupational therapy assists individuals with Leigh Syndrome in improving the ability to perform essential activities such as feeding, dressing, grooming, and toileting.

• Fine motor coordination: Our therapists work on enhancing fine motor skills, such as grasping objects, using utensils, and other hand-eye coordination tasks.

• Adaptive equipment: Recommendations for adaptive equipment, such as specialized seating, cutlery, or communication aids, are provided to increase independence and ease of daily tasks.

Speech Therapy

• Speech and language development: Speech therapy focuses on improving communication abilities in individuals with Leigh Syndrome, helping with both verbal and non-verbal communication skills.

• Swallowing and feeding: Many individuals with Leigh Syndrome experience difficulties with swallowing (dysphagia). Speech therapists use various techniques and exercises to improve oral motor skills and reduce the risk of aspiration.

• Communication aids: For individuals with limited speech, speech therapists introduce augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems to facilitate interaction and expression.

Exercise Physiology

• Strengthening and mobility: Exercise physiologists work with individuals to improve muscle strength, endurance, and joint flexibility to manage the progressive muscle weakness seen in Leigh Syndrome.

• Breathing exercises: Given the potential respiratory issues associated with Leigh Syndrome, our exercise physiologists teach breathing techniques to enhance lung capacity and manage respiratory function.

• Energy conservation: Individuals with Leigh Syndrome may tire easily due to their neurological impairments. Our exercise physiologists guide families and caregivers in teaching energy conservation techniques for daily activities.

Specialized Facilities

• Sensory Room: Our sensory room offers a calm and controlled space that can help individuals with Leigh Syndrome manage overstimulation and sensory sensitivities, promoting relaxation and focus.

• Kids Therapy Gym: A safe and playful environment where children can engage in therapeutic activities designed to improve motor skills, balance, and physical coordination.

• Rehabilitation Gym: The rehabilitation gym provides opportunities for structured, therapeutic physical activities aimed at enhancing strength, mobility, and overall physical function in a supportive environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the symptoms of Leigh Syndrome?

Symptoms of Leigh Syndrome typically include progressive motor and coordination issues, developmental delays, seizures, and respiratory complications. These symptoms usually begin in infancy or early childhood and worsen over time.

How can physiotherapy help individuals with Leigh Syndrome?

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in Leigh Syndrome by improving motor function, balance, coordination, and posture. Tailored exercises can help individuals maintain their ability to move and perform daily tasks for as long as possible.

Does Leigh Syndrome affect speech and swallowing?

Yes, many individuals with Leigh Syndrome experience speech delays, swallowing difficulties, and feeding challenges. Speech therapy helps address these issues through specialized techniques to improve communication, swallowing, and feeding abilities.

How does occupational therapy support individuals with Leigh Syndrome?

Occupational therapy helps individuals with Leigh Syndrome maintain their independence in daily activities by improving fine motor skills and providing recommendations for adaptive equipment. Therapy also addresses sensory and cognitive challenges.

Is there a cure for Leigh Syndrome?

Currently, there is no cure for Leigh Syndrome. However, early intervention with therapies such as physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals affected by the disease.

Can Palms Physiotherapy assist with NDIS funding?

Yes, Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health is an approved NDIS provider. We work with NDIS participants to provide tailored therapy services aimed at improving mobility, function, and overall well-being.

Contact Us

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we are committed to providing personalized therapy for individuals with Leigh Syndrome. Our team of expert physiotherapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and exercise physiologists work collaboratively to improve the quality of life for individuals with this rare neurological disorder. Visit www.palmsphysiotherapy.com.au or call us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.