Experiencing a stroke can take a toll on your life and quickly change your abilities. Physical therapy plays an essential role in recovering from a stroke to gain back your mobility and quality of life. This blog will discuss the benefits of PT in stroke rehabilitation and discuss insights.
How Does a Stroke Affect the Body
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted through a blockage or rupture. Because the brain isn’t getting the necessary oxygen it needs to function properly, the body also can’t function properly. Some common symptoms that a stroke incurs are:
- Muscle weakness
- Trouble walking, talking, and seeing
- Drooping in the face
- Partial numbness of the face or body
Rexburg physical therapy, paired with other forms of treatment, aims to reverse these symptoms so you are in control again. Let’s look at what you can expect during the PT process after experiencing a stroke.
What to Expect During Physical Therapy After a Stroke
After experiencing a stroke, PT should be introduced as early as possible for the best chance of recovery. It will usually begin 1-2 days after the stroke occurs, depending on how quickly the patient can become medically stable. It will also often start in the hospital so it can be done with other forms of care, such as language therapy, neurology, OT, etc. all in one place.
The physical therapist will begin by assessing your physical functions, such as mobility, strength, coordination, etc., and figure out the major pain points. They will also determine other factors such as medical history, severity, and type of stroke, along with your goals. After all things are considered, they will develop a customized plan just for you for optimal recovery.
This can include these types of practices:
- Using an assistive device to slowly improve function on your own
- Balancing exercises
- Activities that help improve strength and range of motion
- Electric stimulation to stimulate the muscles
- Heat/Ice therapy to reduce pain
- Constraint therapy to practice using only the affected body parts
- Insights on how to reduce the risk of injury during recovery
Benefits of PT in Stroke Recovery
- Improved Mobility
Through your customized PT plan, you will be able to regain mobility back in the areas where it was lost. This will tremendously improve your quality of life.
- Regained Independence and Confidence
As you begin to develop stronger balance, coordination, and function, you won’t need to rely on other people or devices as much. This continual growth will help you feel a sense of accomplishment and build confidence.
- Reduced Risk of Recurring Stroke or Complications
Staying on top of PT and pushing through it for yourself can drastically decrease the chances of further complications happening. It can reduce the risk of blood clots, along with bed sores and muscle loss.
- Stimulated Brain Recovery
Physical therapy is a great way to aid your brain in recovery as well. Physical activity helps boost the brain and help new blood cells grow and develop.
Conclusion
Implementing physical therapy into your stroke recovery plan can help you heal more quickly and optimally. Working with a physical therapist during recovery can improve your quality of life for years to come.
