Recovering from Stroke? Physical Therapy Can Help!

Physical therapy can be challenging no matter how mobile or immobile you are; however, there is something to be said about the difficulties a stroke patient faces during the physical therapy process. It’s important for patients to feel comfortable with their clinician and trust that they will get them through one of the most challenging endeavors they will ever face.

Post-stroke rehabilitation requires immense focus and determination, and patients may be surprised to learn that physical therapy can help a patient’s recovery. Fortunately, the team at OSR Physical Therapy is here to help stroke victims become stroke survivors. Before jumping into the benefits of physical therapy, we’d like to share a few health-related facts and statistics about strokes:

Stroke Facts & Statistics

• >Approximately 795,000 people suffer a stroke each year.
• Stroke is the leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States.
• 75% of all strokes occur in people over the age of 65.
• Atrial fibrillation and high blood pressure are risk factors of stroke.

*Statistics brought to you by the Stroke Center.

The first, immediate treatment approach for patients who suffer from a stroke is to remove or dissolve the clot using a dissolving agent. Or, a physician may need to remove the clot by performing a mechanical thrombectomy. Once the blood clot has been removed, the patient will need to be monitored for a few days after their procedure to ensure there is no threat of another, future stroke.

Physical Therapy for Stroke

After the appropriate amount of time, it is best for stroke patients to begin some kind of physical therapy regimen. According to the National Stroke Association, working with a physical therapist after a stroke can help, “…with problems in moving and balance; [a physical therapist] suggests exercises to strengthen muscles for walking, standing and other activities.”

Many studies have found physical therapy can help improve mobility, balance, and muscle strength. If you or someone who know has suffered from a stroke, call OSR Physical Therapy today to schedule an appointment with a member of our team!