Survivors of stroke can benefit significantly from accessing physiotherapy as it supports effective recovery.

Find Out How Physiotherapy Supports the Recovery of Stroke Survivors

Physiotherapy will help you improve movement and strength by learning how to use both sides of the body once more. Here’s how physiotherapy can help you recuperate from the effects of stroke and what treatment methods may be applied.

How Physiotherapy Supports Neuroplasticity

Stroke can affect either the right or left hemisphere of your brain. Right-hemisphere stroke can lead to left-sided paralysis or weakness, visual problems in the left eye, and memory problems. Left-hemisphere stroke can produce right-sided weakness or paralysis, speech problems, visual problems in the right eye, impaired mathematical or reasoning abilities, and memory deficits.

After a stroke, your brain cannot produce new cells to replace damaged ones, thus, your rehabilitation relies on developing the ability to reorganize the use of remaining neurons. Changing how your brain works is called neuroplasticity. Physiotherapists, together with other healthcare professionals, can offer a wide range of approaches that support neuroplasticity and recover from stroke.

Depending on your specific condition, physiotherapists can perform several important functions. Initially, they can advise proper sitting and lying positions as well as frequency of movement. Once you're ready to move again, they provide therapy for strengthening your limbs and teach you how to move with greater independence. Remember that, as soon as you can, you must be active again after a stroke as this is essential to your recovery. A physiotherapist will concentrate on avoiding complications and improving your ability to move and become active again.

How Physiotherapy Helps Stroke Survivors

Exercises

The most effective methods of physiotherapy are exercises and applying specific actions, according to the Stroke Association. For example, if you have problems moving your upper limb, physiotherapy may include constraint induced movement therapy. If you can't move one of your legs, treadmill training can also help. Furthermore, many stroke survivors suffer from weak limbs so their physiotherapy would incorporate strengthening exercises, as well as stretching exercises to develop stamina and avoid muscle and joint stiffness.

Equipment

Equipment may also be a necessary part of your rehabilitation program. For instance, you may use a walking frame and rollators to help you stand and walk. A wheelchair could also be necessary, but only as form of initial support until you’re strong enough to stand and practice walking again.

Being able to walk and move again after stroke can be achieved through the help of physiotherapy. Different therapeutic methods can boost your range of motion, strength, and endurance, as well as diminish joint pain and stiffness. Consult with an experienced physiotherapist to get you started with a comprehensive recovery program.

Sources:

“Physiotherapy after stroke,” Stroke.org.uk

“Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation,” Everydayhealth.com