Neurological Conditions and Exercise in the UK
Neurological disorders are medical conditions that affect the brain, spinal cord, and the network of nerves throughout the body. These disorders can impact a wide range of functions, including motor skills, cognition, sensation, and autonomic functions (such as heart rate and digestion). Neurological conditions may result from genetic factors, traumatic injury, infections, degeneration, or autoimmune responses.
Top Three Neurological Disorders in the United Kingdom
Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, which is a general term for memory loss, impaired judgment, and difficulty with daily activities. In the UK, over 900,000 people live with dementia. It predominantly affects older adults, but early-onset forms also occur. Alzheimer's disease is progressive and leads to significant cognitive and physical decline.Stroke
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Strokes can result in long-term physical and cognitive disabilities depending on the severity and the area of the brain affected. Stroke is a leading cause of death and adult disability in the UK, with over 100,000 people suffering strokes annually.Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers, leading to communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body. It affects around 130,000 people in the UK. Symptoms include fatigue, difficulty walking, pain, and muscle weakness.
How Neurological Disorders Affect Movement Patterns
Neurological disorders can severely affect motor control and coordination. Depending on the area of the nervous system affected, the following issues with movement patterns may arise:
Loss of Muscle Control: Damage to motor neurons or areas of the brain responsible for movement can cause muscle weakness, spasticity (stiffness), or complete loss of voluntary muscle control (as in stroke or MS).
Coordination and Balance Problems: Many neurological disorders disrupt the brain’s ability to coordinate movement, leading to unsteady gait, poor balance, and difficulty with fine motor tasks (e.g., Parkinson's disease).
Abnormal Muscle Tone: Neurological damage can result in either hypotonia (reduced muscle tone) or hypertonia (increased muscle tone). Both extremes can impair functional movement.
Fatigue and Weakness: Conditions like MS and stroke often cause extreme fatigue and muscle weakness, limiting the ability to perform sustained or complex movements.
Why Exercise is Beneficial for Neurological Disorders
Exercise is increasingly recognised as a critical intervention in managing neurological disorders for the following reasons:
Improves Motor Function: Regular physical activity enhances muscle strength, flexibility, and coordination. It helps maintain or restore motor skills in conditions like stroke or Parkinson’s disease by promoting neuroplasticity (the brain's ability to reorganise itself).
Enhances Cognitive Function: Exercise stimulates brain activity, which can improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, particularly in disorders like Alzheimer's. It increases the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports neuron survival and growth.
Boosts Mood and Mental Health: Exercise releases endorphins, which reduce stress and depression. These benefits are particularly helpful for people with conditions like MS, who may experience significant mood changes and fatigue.
Improves Cardiovascular Health: For disorders such as stroke, where cardiovascular health is crucial, regular exercise reduces the risk of recurrent events by lowering blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Enhances Quality of Life: Exercise promotes independence by improving the ability to perform daily activities. It also aids in reducing the risk of secondary complications such as muscle atrophy, contractures, and joint stiffness.
In summary, neurological disorders can severely impact movement and quality of life, but tailored exercise interventions are a proven method to help patients maintain or regain functionality, enhance cognitive abilities, and improve their overall well-being.