Stroke recovery 101: Regaining function as quickly as possible

After a stroke, you might experience paralysis, numbness, depression and problems with memory, speech, understanding and attention. But it is possible to recover with hard work and dedication. Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability. But only 10% of survivors fully recover. So, how can you maximize your recovery? Start as soon as possible. Rehabilitation can start 24 to 48 hours after a stroke. Dr. S. Tom Carmichael says to focus on the hard parts. "If you’re having trouble with reach and grasp of the arm, the key is to not let that dangle and open the peanut butter jar just with your good hand but to actively engage and try to use your hand in meaningful tasks," he said. A strict physical and occupational therapy schedule should show results in the first four months, and many patients continue therapy up to two years after their stroke. But be careful; there are things that can slow recovery. "There are a certain few things that may make things worse, and that’s if you strengthen some of the muscles that are preserved," Carmichael said. "I’ve had patients who will do a lot of arm curls, and that’s actually the wrong thing to strengthen, because there’s a natural mismatch." Stroke recovery apps like Medisafe, Constant Therapy and Elevate help with workouts, reminders, speech and cognitive therapy. Researchers at the Ohio State University College of Medicine have developed a novel stroke therapy that works better than the standard of care when tested in mice and dogs. Phase 1 clinical trials are the next step. RESEARCH SUMMARY STROKE RECOVERY 101 REPORT #2678 BACKGROUND: A stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, occurs when something blocks […]

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