Physical therapy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in Milwaukie, Oregon

Why in-home PT is better

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Where we serve / Portland Region / Milwaukie / Conditions we treat / amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
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Meet with the best amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) physical therapists in Milwaukie, Oregon

Milwaukie, Oregon, Luna’s physical therapists have experience designing exercise and stretching routines that are safe, healthy, and comfortable for ALS patients. Our PTs are prepared to provide recommendations and training in the use of the assistive devices most commonly used by ALS patients.

Given that mobility is a common issue for those who suffer from ALS, at-home treatment is commonly sought. With Luna, patients can order physical therapy sessions right from their phone, and your therapist will come to you. At-home physical therapy has never been this convenient. It’s physical therapy, delivered.

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What is ALS?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease and leading cause of disability in the United States. ALS attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, causing motor neurons to atrophy, destroying the brain’s ability to initiate and control muscle movement.

ALS is sometimes called Lou Gehrig's disease, after the baseball player who was diagnosed with the disease at age 36. Individuals suffering from ALS will eventually lose their ability to walk, eat, drink, or speak. There is no cure for ALS, but medication and physical therapy can help to prolong the patient’s lifespan and improve their quality of life.

Source: The ALS Association

ALS symptoms

Because ALS is a progressive disease with a gradual onset, the symptoms can be difficult to identify in the early stages. Some patients may experience weakness or shakiness at first; they may experience difficulty when writing or tying their shoelaces. Others may have difficulty speaking or notice a change in their voice.

Over time, patients experience more serious muscle weakness and paralysis, though the rate and pattern of progression will vary from person to person. Common early symptoms include muscle fatigue, cramping, slurred speech, increased clumsiness, or unexplainable bouts of laughing or crying (emotional lability).

As the disease progresses, the breathing muscles will be affected, and patients will eventually require permanent breathing support. The mean survival time for patients living with ALS is 3 to 5 years, though many people can live with the disease for 10 years or longer.

The most common symptoms of ALS include:

  • Muscle weakness
  • Paralysis
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty breathing

Source: The ALS Association

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What causes ALS?

About 5 to 10 percent of ALS cases are genetic, however the vast majority are never identified. Suspected potential causes include a gene mutation, a chemical imbalance, a disorganized immune response, or protein mishandling in the nerve cells. None of these suspected causes have as yet been confirmed.

While an exact cause is unknown, there are several established risk factors for ALS. For example, men are more likely to develop the disease, as are patients between the ages of 40 and 60.

Some studies suggest that repeated head trauma or exposure to certain chemicals may increase a patient’s risk of developing ALS. Individuals who have served in the military are also at greater risk of developing the disease.

The most common causes of ALS include:

  • Genetics
  • Age
  • Sex
  • Environmental toxin exposure
Source: Mayo Clinic

Physical therapy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (als) in Milwaukie, Oregon

Physical therapy can help patients with ALS adjust to their physical disabilities and lead more fulfilling lives. Physical therapy can also help relieve pain and delay the loss of mobility. Physical therapists will focus on helping ALS patients adjust their environment and lifestyle to cope with their disabilities. PTs can recommend exercises to improve flexibility and reduce pain, and provide instruction and recommendations in the use of assistive devices.

While aerobic exercises, stretching, and range of motion exercises can all improve flexibility and increase muscle endurance, exercise that is too strenuous can actually cause a patient’s condition to worsen. A licensed physical therapist can help patients to find a balance that is both healthy and safe.

Source: Cleveland Clinic
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Frequently asked questions

Where are Luna therapists seeing patients?
Across the Milwaukie area, our therapists are at your service for in-home physical therapy sessions. We're committed to reaching you wherever you are, in any neighborhood we cover, to ensure that your PT experience is as convenient and accessible as possible.

Is physical therapy covered by insurance?
Luna works with a wide range of insurance plans, managing the benefits verification process on your behalf. When you choose Luna, your co-pay will always match the exact amount specified by your insurance plan for visiting a PT clinic. We're proud to accept all major insurances and Medicare.

Is there a waiting list for new patients?
No—we want it to be easy for patients to get started with their physical therapy! We can always accommodate new patients, and most patients can have their first at-home physical therapy appointment within 48 hours of signing up. Our therapists work 6:30 am - 8:30 pm, 7 days a week. Check Availability.

Who are Luna’s physical therapists?
At Luna, our therapists are highly experienced—they have a minimum of 3 years of treating patients, often with considerably more experience. Each therapist undergoes a comprehensive interview process and thorough background check. We exclusively collaborate with therapists dedicated to providing high-quality care to their patients.

We’ve got your back. Book a PT today.

Call 866-806-3599 Call 866-806-3599 or Check Availability