Guillain-Barré Syndrome Symptoms

Due to the progressive nature of Guillain-Barré syndrome, symptoms often start as a tingling feeling in the feet that leads to weakness. These sensations spread up the legs, upper body, and arms. Some sufferers first notice tingling and weakness in the arms or face.

Over time, muscle weakness progresses into paralysis.

Some symptoms one may experience with Guillain-Barré syndrome include:

• Tingling in the fingers, toes, ankles, or wrists
• Weakness that begins in the legs and spreads throughout the body
• Loss of balance or complete inability to walk
• Difficulty moving the face
• Trouble speaking, chewing, or swallowing
• Inability to move the eyes
• Double vision
• Severe shooting, cramp-like pain
• Bladder and bowel dysfunction
• Rapid heart rate
• Difficulty breathing
• Low or high blood pressure

Those who suffer from Guillain-Barré syndrome usually experience heightened symptoms two weeks after initial symptoms begin.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to receive medical attention as soon as possible, as these symptoms can also be indicative of other ailments.

Best Physical Therapy Exercises for Guillain-Barré Syndrome

There are many types of physical therapy exercises that can help aid in the recovery of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Below, we will go over the most common exercises.

Note: It is important to never attempt physical therapy exercises for Guillain-Barré syndrome without the guidance of a Doctor of Physical Therapy.

Range of Motion Exercises

Guillain-Barré syndrome can cause stiff joints and muscles that can restrict movement. Physical therapy exercises focused on regaining a normal range of motion can help. 

At first, a physical therapist may begin by assisting you in performing “passive” motions in which the physical therapist moves your muscles and joints for you. Treatment will eventually progress into performing stretches and exercises you can do on your own.

Strengthening Exercises

A physical therapist will guide you in performing exercises that gradually help restore your strength and agility.

Gait Training

Recovering from paralysis associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome can be difficult. Re-gaining the ability to walk is a long process that requires patience and highly-trained guidance. 

A physical therapist will create a gait training program to help you learn to walk with a mobility aid such as a walker or cane and eventually transition to walking on your own.

Balancing and Coordination Exercises

With Guillain-Barré syndrome, your balance and coordination become hindered. A physical therapist will help you perform specific exercises that can help you regain your balance and coordination, so you can restore your ability to perform daily activities on your own over time.