A stroke is a very serious medical condition that requires bystanders to act fast. Regardless of the severity, if you have suffered a stroke you need emergency care. Knowing the signs of a stroke can help prepare you for an emergency situation and can help save lives. For stroke patients, receiving medical treatment immediately after the event will offer you the best opportunity for recovery.
At Hodgeman County Health Center, we understand the importance of Physiotherapy in the role of recovery and maintenance of the quality of life. Mobility and independence after an injury or procedure play a significant role in recovery, as well as for your general health. It may be challenging at times, but it is ultimately worth the effort!
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Stroke Symptoms
If you recognize one or more of the following symptoms, call 911:
- Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, often occurring on one side of the body.
- Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding.
- Sudden blurred vision.
- Difficulty moving or walking.
- Dizziness or loss of balance.
- Sudden, severe headache
- Sudden nausea or vomiting
- Loss of consciousness.
Act FAST
The acronym FAST is a great way to recall the signs of a stroke.
- F=Face. Can you see one side of the face drooping?
- A=Arms. Can they raise both arms?
- S=Speech. Does their speech sound slurred or incoherent?
- T=Time. call 911 at once and record the time of first symptoms.
The Role Physical Therapy Plays in Stroke Recovery
It is important to incorporate physical therapy sessions very soon after experiencing a stroke. Most often, you will begin therapy while you are still in the hospital. Immediate treatment helps restore lost function and protect against further decline. The main goal is to help you return to daily activities at home, or at work.
Evaluating Your Health
The initial evaluation is very important as specialists determine the course of your treatment. Health assessments may include:
- Discovering your prior health history.
- Discussing your symptoms in detail
- Screening for risk factors
- Reviewing lab and X-ray results.
- Assessing your mobility and motor function
- Hands-on physical assessment.
Once your initial exam has concluded, our physical therapists design a treatment plan that is specific to your needs. This plan will focus on mobility, pain management and risk prevention, and much more.
What To Expect From Physical Therapy
One of the first things your physical therapist will help you work on is how to safely move to and from your bed or chair. As your condition improves, the next step will be guiding you through how to do exercises while in bed. In the later stages of recovery, as you continue to regain mobility, your physical therapy specialist will:
- Improve your balance and mobility
- Fit you with a brace, wheelchair, or other devices
- Help train your family and/or caregivers
Treatment is unique to the individual. It depends on the results of your initial exam, as well as the severity and amount of time that has elapsed since you suffered your stroke.
What Physical Therapy Techniques Are Used After A Stroke?
Physical therapists use many a variety of available treatment options, which may include the following:
Task-Oriented and Functional Training
This training emphasizes the practice of tasks and functional activities participants would perform in everyday life, such as getting up from a chair, walking, and climbing stairs.
Strength Training
Strength training can include either traditional programs that utilize weights to rebuild strength or it can also implement a functional strength-training approach. Functional training uses repetitive movements to naturally rebuild strength and confidence in specific movements.
Balance Training.
Balance training is similar to strength training, however, it involves activities that specifically challenge your balance. These may include exercises such as bearing additional weight on the affected leg, walking on a treadmill, and stair climbing.
Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CMIT)
Physical therapists use CIMT to rebuild the strength in a person’s arm that has been affected by a stroke. Your strong arm will be bound or restrained, meaning you will be forced to use the arm that has been affected by the stroke to build back strength and control.
Functional Electrical Stimulation
Using electrical pulses, this treatment activates the nerves and makes weakened or impaired muscles move. It can help promote mobility, enhance control and coordination.
Positioning
It may seem odd, however, proper positioning as directed by your physical therapist can help reduce muscle pain, spasms, or stiffness. This therapy method also teaches patients the safest way to change positioning, such as going from seated to standing.
Continuing Care
Following the initial recovery phase, your physical therapist will offer continued support as they:
- Monitor your progress
- Adjust your exercise program
- Teach and encourage healthy lifestyle choices to promote longevity
Stroke Recovery Programs At Hodgeman County Health Center
If you or a loved one have exhibited the signs and symptoms of a stroke, always err on the side of caution and have your condition assessed by a professional! When providing treatment for a stroke, every second counts.
You can trust the team at Hodgeman County Health Center to provide immediate treatment, and accurate evaluations and to build out a comprehensive stroke recovery plan designed to meet your specific needs.
Physical Therapy Services Available in Jetmore, Kansas
If you have questions about the Physical Therapy services offered at Hodgeman County Health Center, our team is standing by to take your call! You can connect with us by calling our office or scheduling an appointment online today!
