Rehabilitation of athletes with neurological disorders

Background. Rehabilitation of athletes with identified neurological disorders is a challenging task for the rehabilitation team. The current system of patient management at the recovery stage cannot meet the needs of professional athletes. Therefore, a review of recent knowledge in this field with a view to determining future research directions represents a relevant task. Objective: To identify the key specifics of providing rehabilitation assistance to professional athletes with neurological disorders. Material and methods. The search for publications was conducted using the following scientific databases and electronic libraries: PubMed/MEDINE, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, eLibrary, and CyberLeninka. A total of 9811 publications were retrieved, 75 of which fully met the selection criteria and were included in the review. The search and selection of sources was conducted taking the PRISMA recommendations into account. Results. Rehabilitation of athletes with neurological disorders should be carried out with the participation of multidisciplinary rehabilitation team (MDRT), developing a personalized treatment strategy and monitoring its implementation. Particular emphasis should be placed on maximizing the impact on the patient’s body, while avoiding the occurrence of new complications and injuries. Maintaining continuity in providing rehabilitation support between departments and institutions is of importance in the process of restoring lost functions. Correction of neurological disorders requires a systematic approach and the use of both conventional and innovative rehabilitation methods. Conclusion. Concerted efforts within MDRT and its high qualification ensure the most optimal outcome in the rehabilitation of athletes with neurological disorders. When managing such patients, early rehabilitation is of particular importance, especially among post-stroke patients. Physical load during exercise should be raised smoothly, high-intensity exercises are to be avoided.