Nerve damage is a common condition among veterans. It can be caused by combat injuries, exposure to environmental toxins, and even certain medications. However, many veterans may not realize that they have access to specialized healthcare providers who can diagnose and treat nerve damage. In this blog post, we will discuss how Catalyst Physical Therapy and Diagnostics can help veterans with nerve damage, and how DPT professionals can provide valuable care to these patients.
Nerve Damage in Veterans: Understanding the Condition
Nerve damage is a condition that occurs when the nerves in the body are injured or impaired. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected area. In veterans, nerve damage is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. For example, traumatic injuries sustained during combat, exposure to environmental toxins, and certain medications can all lead to nerve damage. If left untreated, nerve damage can lead to long-term disability and reduced quality of life.
The Role of Catalyst Physical Therapy and Diagnostics
Catalyst Physical Therapy and Diagnostics is a healthcare provider that specializes in nerve studies, specifically electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) testing. As part of the Community Cares network and being in network with Tricare and most Medicare plans, Catalyst provides veterans with access to state-of-the-art testing equipment and experienced professionals who can diagnose nerve damage and develop effective treatment plans.
How EMG/NCV Testing Can Help Veterans with Nerve Damage
EMG testing measures the electrical activity of muscles and nerves, helping to diagnose nerve and muscle conditions. NCV testing measures the speed at which nerves conduct electrical impulses, which can help identify the location of nerve damage. With these tests, DPT professionals at Catalyst can diagnose nerve damage and develop effective treatment plans.
Board Certification for DPT Professionals
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) professionals can become board certified to conduct, report, and interpret EMG and NCV studies. Board certification in clinical electrophysiology is an optional process that requires additional training and testing beyond a DPT degree. Certified DPTs with advanced training in EMG and NCV studies can diagnose nerve and muscle conditions and develop effective treatment plans.
The Misconception About Testing by Neurologists
There is a common misconception that nerve studies, such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) testing, can only be conducted and interpreted by neurologists. However, Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) professionals can become board certified in clinical electrophysiology to conduct, report, and interpret these studies.
Certified DPTs with advanced training in EMG and NCV studies can find nerve and muscle conditions and work with the VA doctors to develop effective treatment plans. They have the skills and knowledge to measure the electrical activity of muscles and nerves, helping to determine the extent and location of nerve damage.
This misconception can cause delays in diagnosis and treatment, as patients as well as other healthcare professionals may believe that the patient needs to see a neurologist for testing.
Veteran’s and Nerve Damage, Next Steps
Catalyst Physical Therapy and Diagnostics is a valuable resource for veterans with nerve damage seeking quality healthcare. With its expertise in EMG/NCV testing, Catalyst can diagnose nerve damage and develop effective treatment plans, while also supporting the VA’s efforts to provide timely and effective healthcare services to those who have served our country. By understanding the role of DPT professionals in testing for nerve damage, veterans can access the care they need to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Give us a call at 727-286-8408 or email us at info@catalystpt.org for more information and if you are a Veteran, we thank you for your service, truly.
