



Stroke is a condition which is caused when the supply to the brain is obstructed due to various reasons such as a haemorrhage, this leads to lack of oxygen reaching the brain which then results in the damage to brain tissues. A stroke can cause weakness or paralysis on one side of the body and difficulty in speaking. It can happen without any signs in most of the people but the risk factor for the stroke are old age, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol or smoking. The immediate treatment of a stroke is mostly medical management that is, drugs and a surgery. Once the individual is stable and has gone through initial medical treatment, physiotherapy treatment is started at the hospital. The first step of a physiotherapy treatment is a thorough assessment such as the parts affected, muscle weakness, stiffness or speaking and swallowing issues. Based on these assessments a customised treatment plan is made. The physiotherapy treatment gives the better results as soon as it is started. There are various treatment approaches based on the requirements such as stretching the tight muscles, strengthening the weak ones or correcting the faulty postures attained, working on the grips. Lower extremity rehabilitation focuses more on the balance (can be done by sensor board) and gait training (walking). The comprehensive approach is needed in the stroke rehab as in to get the best results. There are particular techniques such as CIMT and PNF that can also be given in a condition like stroke. Also simultaneously electrotherapy modalities such as electrical stimulation stimulate weak muscles to mimic the actual movement and prevent complications such as muscle atropy. There are also facial exercises that are done is the face is involved. Speech therapy is also needed in some cases. Also some exercise are also recommended to be done at home such as heel slides and ankle pumps as in to improve the circulation an to avoid the complications of bed rest. Changing positions and proper positioning is also taught as in to avoid bed sores and contractures that can develop in bed ridden patients in long term. Stroke recovery is a slow and gradual process but eventually regular exercises makes biggest differences that ultimately leads to restoration of confidence and independence in most of the patients. Recovery time can vary in each individual according to their severity and risk factors, but the best recovery is expected within the first 6 - 12 months. If you or your loved one is experiencing similar condition, then you can visit Physionautics for expert and advanced physiotherapy solutions.
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