Strokes may disrupt the communication channels between your brain and your muscles, and when this occurs, a stroke survivor can experience paralysis as a result. This inability to move muscles voluntarily, which can range in severity from foot drop to full paralysis, can be a significant obstacle to resuming activities and restoring quality of life for stroke survivors.
Post-stroke paralysis is usually hemiplegic, meaning that it only affects one side of the body. That side is typically the one opposite the stroke’s location in the brain. That is, people who experience a stroke on the left side of their brains experience paralysis on the right side of their bodies.
Adherence to a solid stroke rehabilitation program can help to restore some of the functioning of affected muscles. However, a stroke survivor should be prepared to spend at least six months and maybe longer working to regain their functioning. They can also use adaptive equipment to help compensate for any limitations due to the paralysis.
Rehabilitation to Reduce the Effects of Stroke-related Paralysis
How is it possible for a stroke survivor to participate in rehabilitation if they can’t move their muscles on their own? It can be done, using certain techniques that don’t require patients to move their muscles voluntarily. Such techniques may involve:
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- Passive exercises performed on the patient by a physical or occupational therapist
- Visualization of stroke rehabilitation exercises that can trick your brain into thinking you’re actually moving your muscles
- Electrical stimulation to reactivate the communication channels between your brain and your muscles
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As with all stroke rehabilitation, the goal is to take advantage of neuroplasticity to retrain the brain to regain as much functioning as possible. Also, as in all stroke cases, it’s essential to begin your stroke rehabilitation as quickly as possible in order to get the best results.
With dedicated effort, some stroke survivors will be able to regain functioning lost to post-stroke paralysis.
The Benefits of Adaptive Equjpment
While you are completing your stroke rehabilitation program or if you still experience impairments even after completing it, adaptive equipment can help to replace the muscle functioning that you have lost.
Such equipment may include:
- Stroke orthotics or braces to increase strength and movement
- Walkers or wheelchairs for mobility aids
- Home modification equipment, such as shower grab bars or raised toilet seats to assist with activities of daily living
Consult with your occupational therapist to determine what kind of adaptive equipment can be helpful as you attempt to address stroke-related paralysis.