Did you know that early intervention can make a significant difference in recovery after stroke?

Did you know that you can still improve your mobility and function from a stroke even if you had your stroke years ago? 

Did you know that a stroke can affect how we move, how we think, and how we feel?

A stroke is when there is a blockage to blood flow in the brain (ischemic stroke) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke) that affects that area of the brain and the parts of the body it controls. It can cause the following:

• Paralysis or weakness on one side of the body

• Facial weakness, difficulty speaking or swallowing 

• Balance deficits

• Spasticity (tightness and involuntary muscle stiffness in muscles and exaggerated reflexes)

• Ataxia (a lack of coordination and unsteady movements)

• Mood changes

• Cognitive changes

• Visual/vestibular impairments  

Physiotherapy can play an integral role in stroke recovery. All of our physiotherapists have extensive training and years of experience in working with clients who have had a stroke. Stroke recovery can be a complex and gradual process and having a support team is an important factor in achieving the best outcome. Physiotherapy can optimize recovery and help individuals return to activities they enjoy with as much independence as possible. 

Treatment begins with a detailed neurological assessment followed by a treatment program to target the specific impairments from the stroke. A treatment plan will be tailored to specific goals and challenges and will integrate an individual’s interests and meaningful activities to help achieve the best outcome in recovery. Physiotherapy will involve a hands-on approach to regaining specific movements, learning how to walk or to use the affected hand or arm more effectively. It may also involve balance, vision and vestibular exercises, along with cardiovascular training and overall strength and mobility training. 

Treatment sessions may include:

• Education on symptoms, education to family members and care givers

• Specialized assessment and treatment targeting specific areas of the brain

• NDT (Neurodevelopmental Treatment) framed treatment utilizing therapeutic handling and task-specific training

• Functional movement training (tasks such as bed mobility, transferring to/fro wheelchair, standing, walking, climbing stairs, etc.)

• Strengthening and improving range of motion

• Balance and gait training

• Visual/vestibular integration 

• Integrating aerobic exercise

• Retraining activities of daily living