Physiotherapy after a stroke

Physiotherapy after a Stroke

Most people are completely unaware of the importance of high intensity Neuro-Rehab after a stroke.  It is why I will highlight the benefits of Physiotherapy in this blog and what you can expect if you come into one of our Physiotherapy Clinics in Sittingbourne, Maidstone or Bexley.

As you may know, a stroke is a life-threatening condition, caused by a clot in the blood vessels of your brain or a rupture of your blood vessels due to an increased pressure of the blood flowing through them, called an Aneurysm. The part of the brain that has been damaged braintends to forget its function, which can lead to physical disabilities depending on the part of the brain affected and the severity of the damage caused. The symptoms differ from one person to another and so would the prognosis!

Research says that people that have Physiotherapy immediately after a stroke reduce the severity of the physical disability they suffer and improve their quality of life.  They reduce their dependence on their family and careers, which in turn boosts self-confidence and general mental wellbeing.

What comprises a Physiotherapy session for stroke?

We discuss the goals for each session and this is always done on a case by case basis.  Once we have discussed this, then we will design a plan that has realistic and achievable goals.  There are many different parts of a session, so these could include, but not be limited to balance training, spasticity management, coordination training, learning to do simple activities like turning in the bed, sitting up from chair, using the toilet and walking or staircase climbing. However, there is always a lot of work that needs to be done before we can start to achieve any of these tasks. Tailored exercises, electrical stimulations and nerve-muscle training become very important to start off with and we achieve the sessional goals gradually.

Sometimes a stroke also can lead to a loss of bladder function. Depending on the level and area of affection, the Physiotherapist can help you with designing an incontinence programme in your sessions.

Once good muscle control is established, the Physiotherapist can then engage you in different functional tasks like walking safely in the community, getting dressed or even help you with tips for cooking independently ;)

Important tips for Stroke survivors!!

Surviving a stroke can be frustrating and physically and emotionally get you down. But remember- that is not the end of the game, you are just playing a new game with different rules.

Recovery time might be longer but try to be patient and keep working on yourself. Start your Physiotherapy sessions as soon as possible. Be consistent with your exercises.

There is lot of support available out there. Try contacting the social services or stroke support groups which would help you meet other stroke survivors and help you develop coping strategies.

You are not ALONE. Be patient and take one day at a time.