A client is talking to the nurse about physical therapy (PT) and their diagnosis of spasticity from epilepsy. The client asks if they can do anything else besides attending therapy three times a week. Which statement is the best response to the client's question?

Question

1.PT three times a week is plenty.
2. Muscle stretching can be added to the physical therapy regimen.
3. Using an exercise bike each day for 10 minutes should be added.
4. Walking at a fast pace on days when you do not attend PT has been shown to decrease the spasticity.

Answer 1

2

Rationale 1:Regular and consistent PT exercises have shown to be effective but the client is asking about additional treatment.
Rationale 2:Additional treatment besides regular and consistent PT includes muscle stretching to help prevent contractures, muscle group strengthening exercises, and repetitive motion exercises for improvement of accuracy.
Rationale 3:An exercise bike may be recommended by the prescriber and physiotherapist. The nurse should suggestmuscle spasticity exercises such as muscle stretching tohelp prevent contractures, muscle group strengthening exercises, and repetitive motion exercises for improvement of accuracy.
Rationale 4:Walking may be recommended by the prescriber and physiotherapist. The nurse should suggest muscle spasticity exercises such as muscle stretching to help prevent contractures, muscle group strengthening exercises, and repetitive motion exercises for improvement of accuracy.

Global Rationale: Effective treatment for spasticity includes regular and consistent physical therapy. Additional exercises should center on muscle spasticity exercises such as muscle stretching to help prevent contractures, muscle group strengthening exercises, and repetitive motion exercises for improvement of accuracy.