There are parts of the brain that are damaged during a stroke which results in a loss of basic skills for the stroke victim. These skills may either need rehabilitation to get them back or the patient will have to learn alternative ways of doing daily activities without the use of skills and movements that do not return.
Instructions
General Information
1. Start rehab early. Rehabilitation needs to start in the hospital as soon as the condition has stabilized, usually within 24 to 48 hours after the stroke. In a lot of cases patients are extremely weakened or paralyzed so the first thing to focus on is independent movement. This involves the patient to practice changing positions while lying in bed and work with a therapist to move limbs which the patient cannot currently move on their own.
2. Think baby steps. While the therapists assist patients in demanding tasks like bathing and dressing, the patients are encouraged to progress from sitting up and moving between their bed and a chair to eventually standing and walking without assistance, and eventually using the stroke affected limbs to engage in these activities, if only in a limited capacity.
3. Take your time. Stroke survivors will reach their functional independence at different rates and different levels of success. For some, the rehabilitation process will continue for months or even years while working with specialists to regain skills necessary to live comfortably.
Stroke Rehabilitation Specific Exercises
4. Before starting your workouts. Before beginning any stroke related rehabilitation exercises, a full evaluation will need to be made by your attending doctor. This evaluation may include a stress test to make sure your body is ready for the rehabilitation.
5. Start with the aerobic. According to the American Heart Association, stroke victims should try to get in 20 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise at least 3 days per week. It is vital to start out the aerobic exercise slow and build up the intensity over time.
6. Gain strength and flexibility. Weakened muscles and the inability to move the arms over the head after a stroke mean the survivor will need to focus on regaining strength and flexibility. Lifting light weights 2 to 3 days per week and stretching at least 3 days per week are optimal for recovery. Stretching can be included everyday as it is a stress free activity.
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