Perceptual problems in neurology

Physiotherapy has traditionally been concerned with muscle function. In dealing with patients with neurological disorders it may not be enough to have a thorough grasp of muscular innervation and musculoskeletal problems. We are all aware of the importance of the higher centres as manifested by motivation, courage, intelligence, the capacity to relax and so forth. This is the same for all patients. However, the perceptual problems which are unique to some neurological conditions may undermine the best efforts of a physiotherapist not familiar with them. The patient is the last person likely to be able to point out these problems because agnosia or unawareness is part of the picture. So the physiotherapist who hopes to succeed in this area must have expertise in methods of examination outside the traditional ones.