Stroke Recovery With Physical Therapy

A Stroke occurs when a clot blocks blood flow to an area of the brain, resulting in death of brain cells and damage to the brain. This can result in a variety of symptoms. These can range from weakness and altered sensation to paralysis and complete loss of sensation.

While traditional medicine helps in the immediate management of patients and prevents further injury, the best way for a patient to regain independence and quality of life is progressive, supervised exercise under the guidance of a licensed physical therapist.

Why Physical Therapy?

Physical therapists can help a stroke patient to learn or restore movement patterns essential for day-to-day activities. In addition to motion, a therapist can help improve muscle control, regain balance and stability and boost confidence. A therapist will also help a stroke patient avoid exercises and activities that can be potentially harmful, while creating a safe home environment conducive to rapid recovery.

A New Beginning–New Movement Patterns

A stroke is almost like a bolt of lightning to the nervous system. The effects are difficult to predict. The objective with physical therapy is to make the most out of the given situation, and focus on the basics of motion, strength, balance, and environmental awareness. A stroke can forever alter the patient physically and emotionally. Physical therapy plays a critical role in recovery by facilitating:

1. The programming of new movement patterns- Physical therapists will encourage patients to perform both active and passive movements with the upper and lower extremities. This will help the patient regain independence, starting with simple tasks like sitting upright in bed, and getting out of bed independently. These are essential aspects of a happy, healthy, and independent life.
2. The importance of environmental awareness–Simple measures such as stroking the skin or tapping the joints can help regaining awareness of the senses. Orientation between the body and surrounding objects is often impacted.
3. Continued rehearsal at home– A home exercise program involves repetition and self-training for the patient. In most cases, support from a family member goes a long way for the patient.

The Freedom Everyone Deserves…

There are things that some of us take for granted in life. It’s part of the fabric of human nature. A stroke can rob an individual of fundamental things like muscle control, sensation and balance can shatter the patients lifestyle. Physical therapist help patients to cope with the aftermath of the neurological impact of a stroke. They provide the patient (and the family) with the tools (and the courage) needed for recovery.

If you or someone you know has any movement problems, then don’t hesitate to contact us. As your chosen experts in movement and function, we appreciate the opportunity to serve you.