How to Use Physical Therapy to Recover From a Stroke

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Stroke sufferers are affected in many ways. Sometimes, they can no longer do simple things healthy people take for granted. Intensive physical therapy may be necessary depending on the severity of the neurological damage a stroke causes. Rehabilitation is expensive; but some insurance policies may help with the cost. With it, stroke survivors will improve their fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and muscular movements. Follow these steps to find out how.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Computer with Internet access

Know the Causes of Strokes

Step 1

Understand that strokes are caused by a buildup of cholesterol or plaque in the arterial walls. Over a lifetime, blockages prevent the flow of healthy oxygen rich blood to the heart and brain.
Step 2

Realize that strokes can also occur as a result of blood vessel rupture or bleeding in the brain.
Step 3

Be aware that stroke sufferers often have future episodes of strokes of increased severity and even full heart attacks.
Step 4

Use the FDA Web site to learn more about the causes of a stroke (see Resources below).

Seek to Prevent Strokes

Step 1

Examine your diet as an essential step to stroke prevention. A diet high in fatty foods and red meat may increase your chance for stroke.
Step 2

Check your blood pressure annually. Schedule a full physical exam as a preventative measure.
Step 3

Recognize early stroke symptoms, including sudden weakness in a limb or blurred vision. If you're concerned about the symptoms, seek medical treatment immediately.
Step 4

Use physical exercise on a daily basis. Keeping your body in shape will help you recover with less difficulty.

Consider Functional Needs of a Stroke Sufferer

Step 1

Be an advocate if you know someone who's a stroke patient. Due to the cutting of health care programs, some health plans will place elderly victims in nursing care rather than rehabilitative programs.
Step 2

Try speech therapy to recover as much normal speech ability as possible. While some patients may not be able to speak effectively after a stroke, mental ability may not necessarily be impaired.
Step 3

Practice non-verbal methods like sign language for stroke sufferers who are unable to talk. Focus on encouragement and progress during therapy.
Step 4

Anticipate the need for independence as the patient starts to recover and become self-sufficient.