HYDROCEPHALUS
Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by the buildup of fluid in the cavities (ventricles) deep within the brain. This excess fluid puts pressure on the brain, leading to a range of symptoms and potential complications. The fluid, known as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), normally cushions and protects the brain and spinal cord, but in cases of hydrocephalus, it accumulates to abnormal levels.
There are different types and causes of hydrocephalus, including:
​​01. Congenital Hydrocephalus
Present at birth, this type of hydrocephalus can be caused by developmental abnormalities in the brain or genetic factors.
​​02. Acquired Hydrocephalus
This form of hydrocephalus develops after birth and can result from conditions such as traumatic brain injury, intraventricular hemorrhage (bleeding into the brain's ventricles), infections (e.g., meningitis), tumors, or blockages that disrupt the normal flow of CSF.
The common symptoms of hydrocephalus include:
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Headache
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Nausea and vomiting
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Blurred or double vision
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Cognitive impairment
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Difficulty walking or balancing
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Urinary incontinence
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Changes in personality or behavior
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Seizures
If left untreated, hydrocephalus can lead to serious complications, including brain damage, cognitive decline, and even death.
Treatment for hydrocephalus typically involves surgical intervention to either remove the excess fluid or divert it away from the brain to another part of the body where it can be absorbed. This may involve the placement of a shunt—a thin tube that drains CSF from the brain to the abdomen or another body cavity—or the creation of a new pathway for CSF drainage.
Physiotherapy can play a supportive role in the management of hydrocephalus by addressing associated symptoms such as gait disturbances, muscle weakness, and balance problems. Physiotherapists can design individualized exercise programs to improve mobility, strength, coordination, and overall functional ability. Additionally, they may provide education and guidance on falls prevention, adaptive equipment, and strategies to promote independence and quality of life for individuals living with hydrocephalus.
Neurological physiotherapists at Pimpama can provide comprehensive care and support for individuals with hydrocephalus. Here's how they can help:
01. Assessment and Evaluation
The physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment to understand the individual's specific symptoms, functional limitations, and goals. This may include evaluating gait, balance, muscle strength, coordination, and mobility.​
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02. Individualized Exercise Programs
Based on the assessment findings, the physiotherapist will design personalized exercise programs tailored to the individual's needs and abilities. These programs may include a combination of stretching, strengthening, balance training, and aerobic exercises to improve mobility, stability, and overall physical function.​​​​
03. Gait Training
Individuals with hydrocephalus may experience difficulties with walking and balance. The physiotherapist can provide gait training exercises and techniques to improve walking pattern, stride length, and posture. They may also prescribe assistive devices such as walkers or canes to enhance mobility and safety.​​
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04. Balance and Coordination Exercises
Balance deficits are common in individuals with hydrocephalus. Physiotherapists can implement specific exercises and activities to enhance balance, proprioception, and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and improving confidence in daily activities.​​
By providing specialized neurological physiotherapy interventions, Pimpama physiotherapists can help individuals with hydrocephalus optimize their physical function, independence, and quality of life.
