Struggling with POTS? How Advantage Physical Therapy Can Help You Feel Stronger Again 

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, also known as POTS, is a condition that is often under-recognized and misdiagnosed. Over the past few years, awareness has started to increase and it is recognized as the most common autonomic nervous system disorder. There are a wide range of symptoms that affect multiple organs including dizziness, fatigue, and an elevated heart rate when changing positions. 

At this time, there is no known cure for POTS, but it is possible to manage symptoms and get back to activity! If your symptoms have been preventing you from working, doing the activities that you love to do, or are making you wish you could feel "normal again", it’s time to schedule an appointment with us at Advantage Physical Therapy in Falls Church or Reston, Virginia to learn more about how a custom management plan with physical therapy can help you get control of your life again. 

What is POTS? 

POTS is one of the conditions that is under the umbrella of dysautonomia. Dysautonomia is a term that describes any disorder in the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system is responsible for automatic functions of our body, including heart rate, blood pressure, temperature regulation, and digestion. 

The POTS is an acronym that describes the condition well: 

• Postural: your body’s position
• Orthostatic: an upright, standing position
• Tachycardia: elevated heart rate, over 100 beats per minute
• Syndrome: a collection of symptoms that occur together

When a person has POTS, the autonomic nervous system does not function properly. Blood flow to the brain may decrease during upright activities. The body recognizes the decrease in blood flow return to the heart and brain, and responds by releasing adrenaline which increases heart rate. 

Symptoms can include: 

• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Fainting
• Brain fog
• Racing heartbeat
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea

Symptoms may be triggered by standing up, physical activity, or during extended periods where you’re on your feet. 

Symptoms can get worse when the weather is hot, or when you’re in a hot bath or shower. Worsening symptoms may also occur when you have a cold or while you’re exercising strenuously. 

Physical therapy and POTS

The primary treatments for POTS include diet, nutrition, and physical activity. That’s where we come in. 

Physical therapy for POTS starts with an evaluation by our team. We check on your:

• Activity tolerance
• Endurance 
• Strength 
• Mobility
• Other POTS symptoms that impact daily activity

We base your POTS management program around your symptoms, their triggers, and your activity tolerance and goals. 

Monitoring your blood pressure and heart rate can provide insight into your condition and guide your treatment plan. 

Typical POTS programs start with supine exercises and gradually progress into a more upright position as vitals response improves and include activities such as: 

• Core workouts performed on mats
• Supine biking
• Recumbent biking
• Strength training from prone  to seated positions

Progress happens at a pace that reflects your symptoms and tolerance. Breathing techniques and mobility training can also extend your body’s capabilities. 

Combined with your physician’s treatment, physical therapy is a powerful way to overcome the frustration of the limitations caused by the symptoms of POTS. 

Contact Advantage Physical Therapy to arrange a consultation with our team. Call or click to plan your visit today.