A stroke is a life-altering medical emergency that can lead to serious complications and, if not treated adequately, can substantially lower your quality of life. Since May is National Stroke Awareness Month, our team at Park Physical Therapy would like to share information about stroke symptoms, what to do, and what the recovery process entails. Continue reading to learn more. 

Physical Side Effects of Stroke

A stroke is an emergency medical event where a failing artery or blood clot blocks blood flow to the brain. Strokes can be catastrophic and devastating, physically, emotionally, and cognitively. Symptoms after a stroke can take on many forms, but common physical effects include:

• Muscle weakness.
• Partial paralysis.
• Balance issues.
• Spasticity.
• Vision problems. 

These symptoms can be distressing, but the right treatment program can improve and resolve many of them. 

Physical Therapy After Stroke

The recovery process after a stroke can be a challenging road, but physical therapy can help minimize symptoms and improve quality of life. Every stroke is different, and outcomes will vary between patients, but physical therapy with our team at Park Physical Therapy has numerous benefits. Some of the critical benefits of stroke rehabilitation include:

• Improved Strength – Strokes can be physically devastating, but a consistent therapeutic exercise regime makes a significant difference. Our team will help patients gradually improve their strength and agility over time, allowing them to return to normal daily life. 
• Increased Independence – A stroke can potentially rob you of your independence. Many patients who participate in physical therapy after a stroke see vast improvements in their balance, muscle strength, mobility, and grip strength. As a result, you may feel more confident and less reliant on your caregivers. 
• Muscle Loss Prevention – Muscle weakness or paralysis can put you at risk of muscle atrophy. Therapeutic exercises can help restore the use of impaired limbs, stimulate muscles, and restore the connection between the brain and body. 

Contact Us 

At Park Physical Therapy, we help patients address their physical issues after a stroke through our targeted rehabilitation programs. Recovering from a stroke can be a lengthy and often frustrating process, but our team will work with you every step of the way to help restore more of your normal function. To learn more about physical therapy after a stroke, be sure to contact us today!