How To Treat Progressive Supranuclear Palsy

Occupational Therapy

Those with this condition might find it hard to maintain their balance. Other physical impairments may cause difficulty in completing daily tasks. Occupational therapy is often prescribed to aid patients in improving their balance and finding alternative ways to complete daily tasks. Patients will work with a therapist to find ways to do things such as getting dressed, brushing their hair, attending to oral hygiene, and using appliances, such as grab bars and adjustable shower heads, to safely take care of their basic hygiene needs. This therapy might also include learning how to use mobility aids, such as wheelchairs and walkers. The exact therapy measures depend on the patient's level of impairment and what daily tasks they need the most help with.

Special Eyeglasses

Patients with progressive supranuclear palsy can also use special eyeglasses with prism or bifocal lenses. While these don't treat the underlying disease, they can help ease problems patients may experience looking downward. There are several ocular conditions that can occur with PSP, but one of the most characteristic is vertical gaze palsy. While vertical gaze palsy occurs in other Parkinsonian conditions, it tends to be caused by a tauopathy like progressive supranuclear palsy.

A 'gaze palsy' is a paralysis or inability of the eye muscles to use their full range of motion. Said palsy must affect both eyes. With vertical gaze palsy, patients may have difficulty with looking up, down, or both. The palsy occurs because there's damage to certain midbrain structures. Most patients will need two types of corrective eyeglasses to broaden their field of vision, because one pair won't be enough. One pair is used while sitting for work like reading or drawing, while the other is used for walking.