PoTS

Another unusual condition we see at the clinic that affects rehabilitation is PoTS – Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome.

Some people experience postural hypotension, which is lightheadedness when standing up too fast. This is caused by low blood pressure due to , factors such as dehydration, medication and anaemia – This is NOT PoTS.

SO WHAT IS POTS?

PoTS is a problem with regulation of the autonomic nervous system, which coordinates the heart rate and blood vessel response.

The act of standing can be a challenge for PoTS sufferers. People with PoTs can experience…

Alteration in blood pressure

Racing heart rate

Fainting

Chest pain

Exhaustion

Brain fog

Exercise intolerance

Poor sleep

and more…

This can be the primary condition or be the result of a virus or severe illness.

Managing the symptoms of POTS within a rehabilitation programme is challenging. However most patients, having found the correct combination of strategies, progress significantly.

As well as managing exercises strategies to strengthen muscles especially of the lower limb; use of postural cues- such as foot and ankle exercises, buttock clenching when sitting; treatment might include use of pressure garments, goal setting, pacing, low grade exercise and exercise progression. As always, if anything above relates to you, please get in touch to see if we can help and you can book an online consultation too.

Some useful links:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/postural-tachycardia-syndrome/

https://www.potsuk.org/

by | 9 Mar, 2023 | Health, Therapy, Tips

by | 9 Mar, 2023 | Health, Therapy, Tips