Making Movement Matter with Dr. Mike Fletcher

In this episode, the Knowbodies learn about neurological therapy and how it breaks the mold from the conventional thoughts of physical therapy. Where does neuro-therapy fit in to the rehab process and what sorts of patients can best utilize this sort of therapy?   Shownotes: Mike shares with us some stories of his unique relationships with patients that are coping with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, and more.  “Community-based” therapy settings have grown into a large part of the medical management for progressive neurological conditions. These communal activities not only tackle patient impairments and goal setting head on, but also provide patients with a support system and resources for sharing their experiences that have proven to be effective for helping patient cope with the disease process. The knowbodies push the issue of how a physical therapist can act as a conduit for connecting patients with resources and compatible social networks in order to improve their experience and mental constitution. Mike is an accredited clinician of LSVT BIG, a dedicated exercise program designed to maximize the functional movement potential of patients with parkinsonian symptoms by emphasizing large and exaggerated movements in an organized protocol. This program helps to counter the common symptom progression of many patients and allows them to maintain active lifestyles and continue to enjoy physical pastimes. Because of the emerging evidence, community outreach, and increasing access to information for patients, neurological therapies are one of the fastest growing fields of healthcare. As the complex healthcare system continues to evolve with our aging population, neuro- therapy offers endless options to enhance patient care and develop creative outlets for aspiring therapists interested in combatting neurological movement disorders and becoming a part of the neuro- community! Mike's Self-Written Bio: Graduated from University of Pittsburgh in 2010 with a BS in rehab science and Certificate in Pathokinesiology. Continued On the DPT curriculum at Chatham University graduating in 2012. From undergraduate studies through PT school I worked as a rehabilitation aide in a variety of healthcare settings which is what really sparked my interests in musculoskeletal and neurological physical therapy. I began as a float physical therapist with a local outpatient company and within the company I began to see the influx of neurological patients that were not receiving neurological geared treatment. I was able to initiate community based educational sessions for the neurological population and subsequently  an opportunity arose for me to switch gears and accept a position with a local hospital-based outpatient facility. Here I was able to expand my knowledge and treatment styles with musculoskeletal and neurological clients. Over the course of the first year, I became more interested with the neurological facet and started to reach out to this population and helped initiate some great programs for individuals with neurological impairment.  Now, over 2 years later, I am seeing roughly a 60-40 neuromuscular to musculoskeletal client ratio which has been exciting and beneficial to those in the area of our facility.    Mike’s contact info: [email protected]