Rehabilitation After A Stroke

Rehabilitation After A Stroke

Anyone who has experienced the effects of a stroke personally, or through someone you know, understands just how scary they can be, not just during the stroke but after. The after effects of a stroke can cause problems with muscles and mobility, including; weakness, difficulty walking, muscle stiffness, joint pain, locking of joints, pain, numbness, difficulty swallowing and difficulty coordinating movements in general. While these are all very real and common symptoms post-stroke, rehabilitation for stroke patients has advanced significantly and can drastically improve your long-term results, especially when starting physical therapy early.

A stroke occurs in the brain as a result of a loss of blood flow to one or more areas. This results in a deprivation of oxygen that kills cells and can affect the areas of the brain responsible for muscle memory and control. The effects of a stroke can be mild and include symptoms such as tingling and weakness, or severe, causing problems with mobility and even paralyzation. This typically depends on where in the brain the stroke occurred and how much damage has been afflicted.

The damage caused by a stroke is not necessarily permanent. With early rehabilitation and physical therapy, doctors can develop a targeted treatment plan in the early post-stroke phases to increase the likelihood of reversing the stroke effects. Physical therapists work with patients to address muscle tone and stimulation early on, even when movement has been limited or lost. When normal functioning returns, physical therapy helps patients relearn physical skills and retrain the healthy brain cells to assist. Post-stroke rehabilitation often begins as early as 24 hours after having a stroke to target the affected muscles and brain cells early on, and increase effectiveness. Physical therapists will also work with patients to improve balance, coordination and other basic mobility skills to avoid the risks of falls and injuries.

It is important to find a physical therapist for post-stroke rehabilitation who belongs to the American Physical Therapy Association and is a Licensed Physical Therapist. For more information on post-stroke rehabilitation, please call Sarrica Physical Therapy & Wellness Center at 347-560-6920 or request an appointment here.