Inpatient therapy can help you take charge of your recovery and quality of life after a stroke. The complexity of the brain and the many side effects of a stroke vary from person to person. Therefore, it is important for you to see a stroke therapist as soon as possible.
Physical therapists
Physical therapists are a great resource for stroke survivors, as they can help them regain their physical capabilities. PTs will perform an initial evaluation to determine the patient’s current functional status and to determine how much physical therapy is needed. They will also review the patient’s medical history and will work with him or her to determine specific goals for therapy.
Rehabilitation after a stroke typically involves individual and group therapy. Physical therapists will work closely with other members of the rehabilitation team to help stroke survivors recover their independence and function. Physical therapists will prepare a stroke survivor for safe discharge home and the next level of rehabilitative care.
Physical therapists can also help patients regain strength and independence by teaching them to perform daily activities. They can also teach family members how to use equipment and assistive devices to help the patient. Recovery after a stroke is gradual, and can take months. Patients usually improve quickly in the first few weeks, but improvement is usually slower after a few months. It is recommended to continue physical therapy for as long as necessary.
About 70% of all strokes are treatable, and many stroke survivors recover some functionality through physical therapy. This is a key part of the recovery process, as it can help with both short and long-term health benefits. Depending on the type and severity of a stroke, physical therapy may be needed in addition to speech and occupational therapy.
Exercises performed by physical therapists focus on strengthening the affected limbs. Patients practice alternating movements to regain strength and control. These exercises can also help patients overcome stiffness, slowness, and muscle spasms. Patients are also taught how to safely transfer from a sitting position to a standing position.
Physiotherapists also work with the patient to return to daily activities, such as standing, sitting, walking, and climbing stairs. They use a variety of treatment techniques and equipment, including body weight supported treadmill training, which uses an overhead suspension system to support the patient’s weight. Patients may also need to use specialized equipment to improve balance.
Physical therapists after a stroke focus on rebuilding physical strength and mobility. The goal of physical therapy is to minimize the effects of a stroke on a person’s ability to perform everyday activities. It also helps patients retrain healthy brain cells and relearn everyday tasks.
Occupational therapists
Occupational therapists help stroke survivors regain their independence and resume daily activity levels. They assess the whole patient and their environment and develop strategies to help them achieve their goals. With their help, stroke survivors learn new skills to help them cope with their new circumstances, and develop optimism, motivation, and self-confidence.
An occupational therapist may use standardized tests or structured observation techniques to assess motor planning, attention, and memory. This information is then used to develop individualized treatment plans and to measure success. An occupational therapist may use the Rivermead Behavioral Memory Test, Assessment of Motor and Process Skills, or a combination of assessments. Once the occupational therapist has identified problems and assessed progress, he or she may recommend exercises to improve a patient’s motor skills.
Occupational therapists may also help stroke survivors with self-care activities. Some stroke patients may have difficulty performing everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. Occupational therapists can help them learn ways to complete these activities, and can introduce equipment to help them perform their daily activities.
Occupational therapists may be able to help a person continue to pursue their goals at home or in an occupational therapy clinic. Stroke survivors may not know the extent of their stroke damage until they return home, but a therapist will help them prepare for the challenges they face and set recovery goals. The occupational therapist will work with the patient to reestablish function, and he or she may work with a physical therapist and speech therapist.
The duration of stroke rehabilitation depends on the patient’s condition, but a large portion of the recovery occurs in the first six months to one year. During this time, occupational therapists work collaboratively with the patient and caregivers to identify the impact of stroke on daily activities. They also develop the skills that are necessary for daily life. For this, an occupational therapist needs to possess an extensive repertoire of techniques.
Post-stroke motor impairment is the most common deficit. Patients with impaired motor skills are at increased risk of falling and sustaining fall-related injuries. This can impact the patient’s mobility and their ability to engage in daily activities and social activities. Additionally, the patient’s ability to drive can be significantly compromised.
Many stroke survivors experience significant difficulties with their speech and language skills. Many have difficulty speaking, swallowing, and remembering words. Rehabilitation from a stroke can help stroke survivors regain the skills they need to get back to a normal lifestyle. There are also several support groups for patients and their families.
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