7 Key Benefits of Physiotherapy Following a Stroke
What is a Stroke?
A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted. This disruption may be caused by a blockage in a blood vessel (ischemic stroke) or bleeding from a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). As a result, the brain does not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to the death of brain cells.
Some of the ways having a stroke can affect us
Following a stroke, there can be a range of short-term and long-term consequences that vary depending on the severity of the stroke and the area of the brain affected. Common effects and complications after a stroke may include:
1. Physical impairments: Strokes often result in physical impairments such as weakness or paralysis on one side of the body (hemiparesis or hemiplegia), difficulty with coordination and balance, muscle stiffness or spasticity, and challenges with fine motor skills.
2. Communication difficulties: Stroke can affect the ability to speak, understand speech, read, or write. This condition is known as aphasia and can vary in severity, ranging from slight difficulty finding words to complete loss of language skills.
3. Cognitive changes: Strokes may cause cognitive changes, including memory problems, difficulty with attention and concentration, impaired judgment, and decreased problem-solving abilities.
4. Emotional and psychological changes: Many stroke survivors experience emotional changes such as depression, anxiety, frustration, and mood swings. Personality changes, emotional lability (rapid mood changes), and difficulty controlling emotions can also occur.
5. Swallowing difficulties: Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a common complication after a stroke. It can lead to challenges with eating, drinking, and an increased risk of aspiration pneumonia.
6. Fatigue and decreased energy levels: Post-stroke fatigue is a prevalent and often persistent symptom. It can lead to reduced stamina, difficulty participating in activities, and general feelings of tiredness.
7. Sensory disturbances: Strokes can affect the sensory system, resulting in altered sensations such as numbness, tingling, or hypersensitivity in specific areas of the body.
8. Urinary and bowel problems: Some stroke survivors may experience urinary incontinence, urgency, or difficulty controlling bowel movements.
9. Increased risk of recurrent stroke: Following a stroke, there is an increased risk of having another stroke. Appropriate medical management and lifestyle changes can help minimise this risk.
The Role of Physiotherapy following a Stroke
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation and recovery process for individuals who have had a stroke. It is a specialised form of treatment that focuses on restoring movement, function, and overall quality of life. Here are some key benefits of physiotherapy after a stroke:
⦁ Improved mobility: Stroke often causes weakness, paralysis, or difficulties in coordinating movements. Physiotherapy helps to address these issues and work towards improving mobility. Through tailored exercises and techniques, a physiotherapist can help regain control over affected limbs, enhance balance, and restore independence in daily activities.
⦁ Muscle strength and tone: After a stroke, muscles may become weak and lose their tone. Physiotherapy includes exercises and techniques that target strengthening specific muscle groups. These exercises can prevent muscle wasting, improve muscle strength, and enhance overall muscular control.
⦁ Restoration of balance and coordination: Stroke survivors may have difficulties with balance and coordination, making them prone to falls and injuries. Physiotherapy interventions, such as targeted balance exercises and gait training, help address these issues and promote stability and coordination during movement.
⦁ Pain management: Many stroke survivors experience pain, discomfort, or stiffness in their bodies. Manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, and stretching exercises, can help alleviate pain, reduce muscle tension, and enhance overall comfort.
⦁ Functional independence: One of the primary goals of physiotherapy after a stroke is to promote functional independence. Physiotherapists work closely with patients to address limitations in activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, bathing, and walking. By employing specific strategies and adaptive techniques, patients can regain their ability to perform these tasks independently.
⦁ Prevention of complications: Stroke survivors are at an increased risk of developing secondary complications such as blood clots, contractures, and pressure sores. Physiotherapy interventions include exercises to promote circulation, range of motion exercises to prevent contractures, and education on proper positioning to prevent pressure ulcers. These preventive measures reduce the risk of further complications.
⦁ Psychological well-being: Stroke recovery is not only physical but also emotional. Physiotherapy provides a positive and encouraging environment for stroke survivors to regain their physical abilities. Engaging in regular physiotherapy sessions can boost self-confidence, enhance mood, and contribute to overall psychological well-being.
It is important to remember that each stroke survivor is unique, and their physiotherapy program should be tailored according to their specific needs and abilities. A qualified and experienced physiotherapist can assess the individual's condition and design a personalised treatment plan to maximise the benefits of physiotherapy.
By working closely with a physiotherapist and committing to a consistent rehabilitation program, stroke survivors can significantly improve their quality of life and regain independence in their daily activities.
Why choose physiotherapy at home following a stroke?
The benefits are supported by research
"Home-based versus centre-based rehabilitation program in the recovery of the function and mobility following a stroke: a randomised controlled study" by Rabadi et al., . This study compared home-based rehabilitation to center or clinic based rehabilitation for stroke patients. They demonstrated that those in the home-based program demonstrated significant gains in function and mobility.
Collectively, these factors can contribute to a more efficient and effective rehabilitation process, helping stroke survivors to regain as much independence as possible and improve their overall Choosing physiotherapy at home following a stroke can be beneficial for several reasons:
⦁ Comfort and Familiarity: Recovering in a familiar environment can reduce stress and anxiety, which is particularly beneficial after the trauma of a stroke. Comfort can promote relaxation and enhance the focus during rehabilitation exercises.
⦁ Personalised Care: Physiotherapists can tailor therapy sessions to the specific needs and limitations of the stroke survivor, taking into account their home layout and daily routine.
⦁ Safety and Accessibility: Traveling to a clinic can be difficult and risky for someone with mobility issues post-stroke. Home physiotherapy removes the need for potentially stressful or physically challenging transportation.
⦁ Encourages Real-Life Practice: Therapy exercises can be directly applied to everyday activities in the patient’s own living space. This helps to reinforce the skills needed for daily living and can accelerate the relearning process.
⦁ Family Support and Training: Loved ones are more likely to be involved in the recovery process when therapy is provided at home. They can learn how to support exercises and make necessary lifestyle adjustments to help the patient.
⦁ Flexible Scheduling: Home visits can often be scheduled at times that are most convenient for the patient, thereby ensuring they are rested and able to participate fully in their therapy.
⦁ Potential for Better Compliance: Patients may be more likely to adhere to their rehabilitation program when it is provided in the comfort of their home. Regular appointments and the presence of a therapist can motivate them to perform their exercises consistently.
⦁ Reduced Risk of Infection: Hospital or clinic environments can pose a risk of infection, which is an essential consideration for stroke survivors who may have weakened immune systems.
⦁ Continuous Assessment: A physiotherapist visiting the home can continually assess the patient's progress in their actual environment and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
⦁ Holistic Approach: Home physiotherapy allows therapists to observe and address broader influences on a patient’s recovery, such as their overall lifestyle, diet, and psychological well-being, leading to a more holistic care plan.
Choosing home-based physiotherapy after a stroke is often a practical decision that aligns with the individual's medical needs, personal preferences, and logistical considerations, which together may contribute to a more successful recovery.
