Stroke Rehabilitation

Overview

When a person has a stroke blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. Brain cells in this part of the brain are damaged or die.

Potential Effects of a Stroke (not an exhaustive list)

• Depends on the part of the brain affected, how widespread the damage is and how healthy the person was prior to their stroke.
• Can damage: bodily function; cognitive processes; ability to learn; emotions; communication.
• Depression.
• Fatigue.
• Muscle weakness and paralysis.
• Spasticity.
• Sensory sensitivity.

The harm caused by a stroke can be extensive and enduring and many stroke patients will require a period of rehabilitation to regain their independence.

Stroke rehabilitation will be based upon the needs and goals of the person and the severity of the symptoms they are experiencing. Rehabilitation methods will vary, but input will often be required form a number of multidisciplinary team members including: Specialist Nurses, Neuro-Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Speech and Language Therapists.

Stroke Rehabilitation Methods (not an exhaustive list)

• Stretches, passive and active movement of weakened or paralysed limbs.
• Transfer practice.
• Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES).
• Sitting balance practice.
• Practice activities of daily living to increase independence.
• Teach fatigue management.
• Splinting.
• Vocational rehabilitation.
• Hydrotherapy – using the support, pressure, resistance and warmth provided by the water to increase therapeutic benefit.
• Cognitive rehabilitation therapy to address cognitive challenges.
• Development of communication strategies.
• Support to maximise community and social integration.

If you would like any further information about how Keiro can help individuals who have suffered from a stroke please contact us using the form to the right.