Michelle McHugh, Care/Occupational Therapist

Professional Experience

I qualified as an occupational therapist in 2015 and have always had a keen interest and passion for neurology. Since qualifying, I have had exposure to all types of neurology cases and have specialised in neurological OT.

I work as Neuro and Spinal Clinical Lead for a private occupational therapy firm. I have experience working with a varied caseload of neurological conditions including, but not limited to, traumatic and acquired brain injuries, all levels of spinal cord injuries, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, cortical basal syndrome, all types of strokes, cerebellar ataxia, muscular dystrophy and Guillain-Barre Syndrome. I have extensive experience in upper limb management in relation to spasticity and splinting, 24-hour posture and positioning, specialist seating including wheelchairs, visual and sensory impairment, cognitive-communicative deficits including standardised cognitive assessments, different methods of manual handling. I have a level 4 qualification in Single Handed Care. My current role also facilitates my development in leadership skills.

I have experience in assessing sensory deficits for acute and community-based patients. This has predominantly been in terms of a neurological event. In terms of vision, I have experience in assessing for visual inattention, nystagmus, visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, oculomotor control and diplopia. As an OT this will always relate to functional tasks too.

Professional Development

I maintain my professional development and HCPC standards by attending relevant training.