Pusher syndrome

Pusher syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by postural control disturbance, where patients actively push away from the non-paretic side towards the paretic side. This is often observed in patients who have had a stroke.

Symptoms

The main symptom of pusher syndrome is the patient's active pushing towards their paretic side with the non-paretic limb, leading to a lateral postural imbalance. Patients with pusher syndrome also have a tilted perception of body orientation in relation to gravity.

Causes

Pusher syndrome is often observed in patients who have had a stroke, particularly those with right brain damage. However, it can also occur in patients with left brain damage. The exact cause of pusher syndrome is not well understood, but it is thought to be related to damage in the brain areas responsible for perception of body orientation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of pusher syndrome is based on clinical observation and assessment. The Scale for Contraversive pushing (SCP) is often used to assess the severity of the syndrome.

Treatment

Treatment for pusher syndrome is primarily physiotherapy and occupational therapy, aimed at improving balance and functional mobility. Therapy often involves strategies to correct the patient's altered perception of body orientation.

Prognosis

The prognosis for pusher syndrome varies. Some patients recover fully with therapy, while others may continue to experience balance problems and require ongoing support.

See also

• Stroke
• Neurological disorders
• Physiotherapy
• Occupational therapy

References

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