3 Ways Physical Therapy Helps With Stroke Recovery

Physical Therapy and Stroke Recovery

A stroke is known to occur when a clot obstructs normal blood circulation to the brain. This ultimately results in death of brain cells and damage to brain tissue. Symptoms can vary in duration, intensity and how they effect each person. Signs and symptoms can vary from one sided weakness and sensation changes to total paralysis and complete loss of sensation.

While traditional medicine assists with immediate stroke management and prevents further injury, Physical Therapy is one of the top methods for a client to improve their independence and ability to perform day to day activities.

If someone you know may be experiencing a stroke, remembering the FAST Technique listed below may be beneficial:

F: Face drooping one side. Ask the person to smile and see if it is uneven.

A: Arm weakness. Ask the person to elevate both arms at the same time. Is there a drift downward on one side or the inability to lift one arm?

S: Speech is Slurred. Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat one easy sentence such as: “The water is cold.” Did they repeat it with ease and correctly?

T: Time for calling 911. When a person exhibits any of these signs, even if the signs and symptoms go away, get the telephone and dial 9-1-1. Get them to the hospital without delay. Check the time so you will know when it all started.

Why PT at Back In Motion Sarasota Physical Therapy?

Our Physical therapists are trained to help a stroke client learn and improve movement patterns essential for mobility and activities of daily living. The team at Back In Motion Sarasota Physical Therapy are experts in improving muscular strength, muscular re-education, promoting balance, stability and safety, and boosting confidence. Our team of physical therapists and occupational therapists can also assist a stroke client in what movements and activities that could be harmful, while promoting safety and optimal recovery.

3 Ways Physical Therapy Helps With Stroke Recovery

The effects of a stroke are sometimes very difficult to predict. Depending on the severity of the stroke, the goal for PT may be to focus on the basics of movement, strength, balance, safety and awareness. A stroke can forever change a client both physically and mentally. Early intervention for stroke recovery is important, however, even if you have had a stroke in the past, PT can still be of benefit. Listed below are 3 ways Physical Therapy helps with stroke recovery:

1. Re-education of new movement patterns: Our PT’s and OT’s will encourage clients to perform the correct active and passive movements with both the arms and the legs. This will allow clients to get back their independence and abilities beginning with easier activities such as: going from laying down to sitting on the edge of the bed, maintaining seated balance while sitting on the edge of the bed, and getting out of  the bed without assistance. When our clients recover the strength, balance, and basic motor skills to perform these day to day activities, our team of licensed physical therapists and occupational therapists will progress the client accordingly.

2. Improving awareness: Orientation between the client’s body and objects around them is sometimes affected after a stroke. Strategic therapeutic treatments such as stroking the skin or tapping the joints will assist with getting back proprioceptive awareness.

3. Preparation of home work: We will develop a customized and individualized home based program and review it with the client, as well as the family, for maximal carryover. In many instances, a strong family support system will significantly aid in the stroke recovery process.

Physical Therapy for Stroke Recovery at Back In Motion Sarasota Physical Therapy

It’s easy for many of us take things for granted in life. Having a stroke can take away some of those very things we may take for granted. Things like coordination, muscular strength, the ability to feel and balance. Back In Motion Sarasota Physical Therapy will help clients deal with the mental and physical impact of a stroke, as well as the aid in a fast and efficient recovery process. We will  provide the client and the client’s support system with the tools necessary for an effective stroke recovery program in Sarasota Florida.

If you know someone who has had a stroke, then don’t hesitate to call us at (941)925-2700. Do not delay, the longer you wait, the more serious the symptoms may become. As your chosen experts to aid in the stroke recovery process, we promise to do our best to deliver exceptional care. Physical Therapy treatment with an appropriately trained therapist can help every individual live life to the fullest.