Following most physical injuries, your doctor will likely recommend physical therapy. There are many benefits of physical therapy, including increased strength and stamina. But did you know that it can treat other illnesses?
At AdventHealth, we seek to care for all of you in body, mind and spirit. Our team of physicians and rehabilitation experts understand the impact a stroke can have. While you may not be able to prevent a stroke completely, you can count on us to be there to help you recover.
Read on to hear from one of our experts, Noela Lalime, PT, DPT, to learn more about how physical therapy can aid in stroke recovery and help you regain strength and confidence.
The Effect of a Stroke on Your Body
“A stroke occurs when a blood vessel bringing blood and oxygen to the brain gets blocked or ruptures," says Noela. She says, “When this happens, brain cells don’t get the blood and oxygen needed to survive, causing limited function or failure in the surrounding area.” Limited functions following a stroke include:
- Balance
- Control of bodily functions
- Coordination
- Swallowing
- Walking
After a stroke, you may have to change or relearn how you live day to day. More than 40% of stroke survivors suffer loss of movement and other neurological functions. That’s why it’s important to consider rehabilitation therapy when the immediate crisis of a stroke has passed and you’re stabilized medically. Noela informs us, “Physical therapy often starts while you’re still in the hospital so our team can help you start healing immediately.”
How Physical Therapy Helps Stroke Patients
Physical therapy after a stroke may start with simple tasks like picking something up, but over time, you build up to more complex motor movements such as walking. According to Noela, “Physical therapy can help you regain bodily movements, including getting out of a chair, standing, lying down, sitting and walking.” Research shows that the earlier you start physical therapy, the better your chances of fully recovering, allowing you to return to your normal life.
Common types of physical therapy exercises after a stroke include:
- Constraint-induced therapy
- Mobility training
- Motor-skill exercises
- Range of motion therapy
- Strength training
“One of the best things about physical therapy is its ability to mold into the exact treatment you need,” says Noela. Every stroke patient is unique, and their treatment plan should be, too. Our expert physical therapists intentionally work with you to supply the right exercises that fit your needs.
The Long-Term Benefit of Physical Therapy
Noela tells us that “the duration that you attend physical therapy varies depending on the severity of your stroke. However, with continued time spent in physical therapy, you’ll reap many benefits.” One of which includes reducing the likelihood of having another. Physical therapy teaches healthy habits that will serve you well as you heal.
Physical therapy also treats more than just the physical. Half of the battle is in the mind. “After losing normal bodily function, feeling mentally strained is normal. Struggling to do something you so effortlessly did for years can weigh on you,” says Noela. But with consistency and progress in physical therapy, you become more confident in yourself and your recovery journey. It gives you the knowledge and tools to lead a healthy life for you and your loved ones.
Rehab Made for You
We know the road to stroke recovery can be both physically and mentally exhausting. That’s why our team is dedicated to providing you with the whole-person care you deserve, walking with you every step of the way. Learn more about rehab care or schedule an appointment by visiting us here.
