Huntington’s disease
Physiotherapy to empower you
What is Huntington’s disease?
Huntington’s disease is a disease you’re born with, as a result of an inherited faulty gene, though symptoms don’t usually appear until you reach your 40s or 50s. It’s passed on from your parent who carries the gene.
Huntington’s disease is a slow, progressive neurological condition that results in a variety of symptoms that can vary from person to person. It’s a complex disease for which there is no cure, and therapy is aimed at managing your symptoms and maximising quality of life.
Huntington’s can result in changes in the following areas:
Thinking
Learning
Movement
Emotions
Symptoms of Huntington’s
Huntington’s disease affects different people in different ways, but here are some of the most common symptoms:
- Jerky movements of the arms and legs (Chorea)
- Changes in behaviour and personality
- Difficulties with planning and thinking
- Speech and swallowing difficulties
- Balance problems
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Dementia
How we can help
Treatment for Huntington’s disease
There’s no cure for Huntington’s disease, but symptoms can be managed by a team of health professionals to help maximise your function. Your care team may include a Neuro Physio, Doctor, Neurologist, Dietitian, Speech Therapist, Psychiatrist and an Occupational Therapist.
Physiotherapy
Physical therapy in Huntington’s aims to maximise your level of function, as well as to provide recommendations and supports (e.g. for walking aids) as the condition progresses. Recent research indicates that appropriate exercise may improve fitness, motor function, and walking in people with Huntington’s disease.
Treatment plan
Your neurological physiotherapist will work with you to design a personalised treatment plan to help you manage from day to day while being realistic about what’s possible. Exercise may include aerobic (huffing and puffing) exercise, strength training, walking training, or a combination of the above. This will depend on various factors, including your level of function, your goals, and what you enjoy doing.