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POSTURAL ORTHOSTATIC TACHYCARDIA SYNDROME (POTS)

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POSTURAL ORTHOSTATIC TACHYCARDIA SYNDROME (POTS)

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system with symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, a sudden rise or drop in blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, and exhaustion. POTS is described by a patient's intolerance to the change of body position from laying down to upright position.

Because POTS is associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, individuals can have difficulty maintaining physical activity levels and can suffer from associated joint and muscular pain. Physical therapy for POTS has been shown to be an effective treatment method. 

The physical therapists at 360 Physical Therapy & Wellness will prescribe individualized exercises and perform manual therapies to improve pain management and quality of life. Call or email to schedule your consultation today!   

CAUSES & SYMPTOMS OF POTS

POTS is generally diagnosed in individuals aged 13-50 and it is more common in women. Individuals may develop POTS after a viral illness, infection, or trauma. Males tend to develop POTS in their teen years after a period of rapid growth and will see significant improvement of symptoms as they age. Many females will develop POTS post-partum. 

People with certain autoimmune conditions such as Sjogren’s syndrome and celiac disease can be at higher risk. 

Individuals suffering from POTS may also suffer from anemia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, fibromyalgia, and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS).

Common symptoms of POTS include lightheadedness, fainting, tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), headaches, fatigue, body aches and pain, insomnia, and exercise intolerance. 

Individuals with POTS have difficulty staying active due to this dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, so physical deconditioning is common and can cause the symptoms to worsen. However, physical therapy for POTS includes strengthening and endurance exercises that can help recondition the body and decrease symptoms.

PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR POTS 

If you suffer from POTS, it is important to regularly monitor your heart rate and blood pressure. Consuming a diet rich in whole foods, increasing water intake and limiting heavy meals is important in regulating blood flow and reducing symptoms of pain, fatigue, and lightheadedness. 

Physical therapy for POTS has been shown to significantly improve symptoms. The physical therapists at 360 Physical Therapy & Wellness in Fulton, MD will work with you to identify specific endurance and strengthening exercises to improve blood flow and fatigue. 

Our specialized approach to improving POTS symptoms with physical therapy includes:

  • Manual therapy techniques. Your physical therapist will perform manual therapy techniques such as joint mobilization and massage to help decrease pain, improve blood flow, and increase range of motion. 

  • Ultrasound. This type of treatment promotes blood flow and healing by heating the tissues, tendons, and muscles.

  • Functional strengthening. Strengthening exercises for the lower limbs and endurance exercises will help reduce symptoms of fatigue, heaviness, and blood flow.

  • Stretch exercises. Stretching can improve flexibility and promotes blood flow to reduce pain and inflammation.

If you suffer from POTS, or symptoms related to POTS, let our physical therapists help you feel like new again! Contact 360 Physical Therapy & Wellness today.