Motor Neurone disease

What is Motor Neurone Disease (MND)?

Motor Neurone Disease (MND), also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), is a progressive neurological condition that affects the motor neurones—the nerves responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. As these nerves become damaged, the muscles gradually weaken, making everyday activities increasingly difficult.

Symptoms vary between individuals but commonly include muscle weakness, reduced grip strength, muscle cramps, twitching (fasciculations), changes in walking, balance problems, fatigue, difficulties with speech and swallowing, and, in later stages, breathing difficulties. While MND is a progressive condition, specialist rehabilitation can help people remain as active, independent and comfortable as possible for as long as possible.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Although physiotherapy cannot stop the progression of Motor Neurone Disease, it plays an important role in helping people maintain mobility, manage symptoms and optimise their quality of life. At Greenacre Physio, our rehabilitation programmes are tailored to your current abilities, goals and stage of the condition, adapting as your needs change over time.

Treatment may include:

Maintaining strength and joint mobility
Stretching to reduce muscle stiffness and discomfort
Balance and falls prevention
Walking and mobility assessment
Advice on safe exercise and activity levels
Fatigue management and energy conservation
Functional rehabilitation for everyday activities
Positioning advice to improve comfort
Guidance on mobility aids and equipment
Education and support for family members and carers

Our aim is to help you maintain independence for as long as possible while supporting your comfort, confidence and participation in everyday life.

Why Choose Greenacre Physio?

At Greenacre Physio, our clinicians have extensive experience working with people living with complex neurological conditions through specialist NHS neurological services and private practice. We understand that living with Motor Neurone Disease requires a flexible, compassionate and highly individual approach to rehabilitation.

We work closely with you, your family and, where appropriate, your wider healthcare team to develop realistic, meaningful goals that reflect what matters most to you. As your condition changes, your rehabilitation programme will evolve to ensure you continue receiving the right level of support.

Appointments are available at our Essex and Cambridge clinics, as well as through home visits and virtual consultations, making specialist neurological physiotherapy accessible wherever you are.

What to Expect

Your first appointment will include a comprehensive assessment of your mobility, strength, balance, flexibility, functional abilities and personal goals. We will discuss how MND is affecting your daily life and identify practical strategies to help maximise your independence and quality of life.

Following your assessment, we will develop a personalised rehabilitation programme focused on maintaining movement, preventing secondary complications and supporting your long-term wellbeing. We will review your treatment regularly and adapt it as your needs change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can physiotherapy slow the progression of MND?

Physiotherapy cannot slow the progression of Motor Neurone Disease, but it can help maintain mobility, reduce stiffness, improve comfort, support safe movement and maximise independence throughout the condition.

Is exercise safe if I have MND?

Yes, when appropriately prescribed. Gentle, tailored exercise can help maintain flexibility, cardiovascular fitness and function. Your physiotherapist will ensure your programme is appropriate for your individual needs and avoids excessive fatigue.

Can physiotherapy help if I already use walking aids or a wheelchair?

Absolutely. Physiotherapy continues to play an important role at all stages of MND by helping optimise transfers, positioning, joint mobility, comfort and overall function.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can self-refer directly to Greenacre Physio, although we also accept referrals from neurologists, GPs, specialist nurses, hospices and other healthcare professionals.

Book an Appointment

If you or a loved one is living with Motor Neurone Disease and would like specialist neurological physiotherapy, we're here to help. Book an appointment at one of our Essex or Cambridge clinics, arrange a home visit, or schedule a virtual consultation with one of our experienced neurological physiotherapists.