As stroke rehabilitation continues to improve, an increasing number of people are being treated. Rehabilitation medicine specialists help stroke patients regain muscle control, speech, and sensation. They teach individuals how to walk again and make the most of their remaining brain and body function. With proper treatment and patience, stroke rehabilitation can minimize the effects of brain damage.
As the stroke victim recovers, therapy begins. A rehab specialist can work with the family, friends, and medical team to help the person regain the functions that were lost. The rehabilitation specialist evaluates the patient and recommends a specific plan. There are a variety of therapies used in stroke rehabilitation to help the patient recover. These can include physical therapy, speech therapy, cognitive therapy, and occupational therapy.
Physical therapy can begin as soon as a person is well enough to work in it. It helps restore muscle tone, muscle strength, and physical balance. The goal of physical therapy is to maximize a patient’s ability to perform basic tasks, including moving, moving around safely, and doing daily activities.
A rehab specialist will work with you to figure out what activities you can do without pain. It is essential to be aware of how the affected side works. A therapist may assist while you complete the exercises. In some cases, therapy sessions can be very intense, while in others they may be more relaxing. Therapy is usually several hours a day, several days a week for several months.
Speech therapy helps a patient understand spoken and written language. An occupational therapist will teach the person how to communicate better, such as through gestures, writing, or the use of a computer. A physical therapist may also help with communication. If needed, the person may use a communication aid such as an electronic device.
Speech therapy can be done in a quiet area with minimal distractions. It may involve some work with the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat. During this therapy, it is important to keep the person comfortable. A light massage can help relax the muscles. It may be appropriate to make suggestions to help the patient achieve his or her goals.
Cognitive therapy teaches the patient how to organize thoughts and use problem-solving skills. A rehab specialist can help the person learn better decision-making skills, including how to deal with stress and maintain focus.
Occupational therapy is a special kind of therapy that focuses on restoring a patient’s ability to perform daily activities. It can help the person prepare for and go back to work. An occupational therapist will help the patient understand the tools and equipment used at home and work. In some cases, the therapist will teach the person new ways to use these tools.
In addition to physical therapy, rehab specialists may suggest occupational therapy, speech therapy, and cognitive therapy. Each one focuses on a different part of a patient’s brain. This enables the patient to practice recovering as much function as possible.
At Kinergy Physio, we plan to redefine rehab by introducing more advanced therapy techniques by through state-of-the-art and sophisticated technology and modalities, we plan to make more accessible to everyone.
