Stroke Care

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting the oxygen and nutrients it needs. There are two main types of strokes:

• Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common type, caused by a blockage in an artery that supplies blood to the brain. This blockage can be due to a blood clot or a buildup of plaque.
• Hemorrhagic Stroke: This occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing bleeding in or around the brain. This can result from conditions like high blood pressure, aneurysms, or trauma.

Strokes can lead to brain damage and result in a variety of symptoms depending on the part of the brain affected. Common symptoms include:

• Sudden Numbness or Weakness: Especially on one side of the body, affecting the face, arm, or leg.
• Confusion: Trouble speaking or understanding speech.
• Vision Problems: Difficulty seeing in one or both eyes.
• Difficulty Walking: Dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.
• Severe Headache: Sudden and intense headache with no known cause.

How Can Physical Therapy Help?

Physical therapy can significantly enhance recovery after a stroke, reducing the risk of secondary complications, promoting physical and mental well-being. At Willow Grove, our thorough and individualized approach to stroke rehabilitation focuses on maximizing recovery through:

1. Restoring Movement and Strength: Strokes often lead to muscle weakness or paralysis, particularly on one side of the body. Physical therapy focuses on exercises and techniques to rebuild muscle strength and improve movement, helping patients regain their ability to perform daily activities.
2. Improving Balance and Coordination: Balance and coordination can be significantly affected by a stroke, increasing the risk of falls. At Willow Grove, we include specific exercises to enhance balance and coordination, reducing this risk and helping patients move more confidently.
3. Enhancing Mobility: Mobility training is essential for stroke survivors who may have difficulty walking or moving. Physical therapists work on gait training and the use of assistive devices (like walkers or canes) to improve mobility and independence.
4. Preventing Complications: Physical therapy helps prevent secondary complications such as joint stiffness, muscle contractures, and pressure sores. Regular movement and exercise are critical to maintaining joint flexibility and overall health.
5. Promoting Neuroplasticity: Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. Physical therapy promotes neuroplasticity through repetitive and targeted exercises, encouraging the brain to adapt and regain lost functions.
6. Addressing Cognitive and Communication Issues: Strokes can affect cognitive abilities and communication skills. Willow Grove therapists often collaborate with speech and occupational therapists to provide comprehensive care that addresses these challenges.
7. Supporting Emotional and Psychological Recovery: Physical activity and therapy can have positive effects on mental health, helping to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety that are common after a stroke. Therapists provide encouragement and support, helping patients stay motivated throughout their recovery journey.

If you or a loved one has experienced a stroke, Willow Grove Physical Therapy is here to provide the expert care and support needed for a successful recovery.