Stroke Therapy

accidents & surgery

After a stroke, most patients experience muscle weakness, numbness, and balance issues.

A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood flow to the brain is interrupted by a blockage or a rupture in a blood vessel.

The brain needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients carried by blood; when this supply is disrupted, brain cells begin to die. There are two types of strokes: ischemic strokes are caused by a blockage in a blood vessel, while hemorrhagic strokes occur when there’s bleeding in the brain. Common stroke symptoms include sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and sudden vision changes. If the patient gets immediate treatment for a stroke, they have a better chance of minimizing the impact of the stroke on their long-term health, such as muscle tightening, lack of balance, and muscle weakness.

physical therapist helping a patient stretch her arm

A stroke damages areas of the brain, affecting balance and mobility through weakness, coordination difficulties, and sensory changes.

A stroke can affect balance and mobility because it damages the areas of the brain that control these functions, such as the cerebellum and the motor cortex. These areas receive and process signals from our muscles, joints, and inner ears, which are crucial for maintaining balance and coordinating movements.

female patient lifting a small weight while doing physical therapy

Patients who have survived this condition can restore muscle strength and balance when getting stroke therapy.

Stroke therapy can be a game changer in recovering from this medical condition and can help manage the consequences by improving mobility, strength, and coordination.

Physical therapists work with stroke survivors to develop customized exercise programs that address their specific needs and goals. These exercises can help rebuild muscle strength, improve balance and coordination, and reduce spasticity and other symptoms associated with a stroke. Stroke therapy can also help prevent complications such as blood clots, pressure sores, and muscle contractures. For instance, range-of-motion exercises keep joints flexible and prevent stiffness, reducing the risk of muscle contractures.

After a stroke, most patients experience muscle weakness, numbness, and balance issues.

A stroke damages areas of the brain, affecting balance and mobility through weakness, coordination difficulties, and sensory changes.

Patients who have survived this condition can restore muscle strength and balance when getting stroke therapy.

Restore your balance, mobility, and health at Bend Physical Therapy. Contact us today.