Prof. Şüheda Özçakır

Increased muscle tension, that is, spasticity, is common after a stroke. It can restrict movement in the arms and legs and prevent the ankle from lifting upwards, making walking difficult.

The basis of rehabilitation is a regular exercise and stretching program. Maintaining joint range of motion, correct positioning and, when necessary, the use of orthoses are the first steps.

Botulinum toxin application can be evaluated for spasticity concentrated in certain muscles. Performing the application on the target muscle with ultrasound or electrical guidance increases the accuracy. It is important to maintain the electrical stimulation and exercise program after the application in order to maintain the movement gain achieved.

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve passing through the narrow canal in the wrist becomes under pressure. The most typical complaint is hand numbness and tingling, which increases especially at night; the person seeks relief by shaking the hand.

Over time, weakness and thinning of the muscles at the base of the thumb may occur. Symptoms occur more frequently in situations such as repetitive wrist movements, pregnancy, thyroid disease and diabetes.

Diagnosis is made by history and examination. Electroneuromyography shows the degree of pressure and helps choose treatment. In mild cases, night splint, activity regulation and exercise may be sufficient. In case of advanced pressure or loss of strength, surgery is considered.

Knee osteoarthritis occurs when the joint cartilage wears out over time. The pain usually increases with movement, making it difficult to go up and down stairs and walk for long periods of time.

The basis of treatment is exercise. Strengthening the muscles of the front of the thigh reduces the load on the joint. Joint range of motion exercises relieve stiffness. Reducing excess weight directly relieves the load on the knee.

Hot-cold applications, electrotherapy methods and, when necessary, drug therapy are used in pain management. Intra-articular injections are evaluated in selected patients. Surgery is considered in cases where there is no response to these approaches and it significantly limits daily life.