Exercises To Strengthen Leg Muscles After A Stroke

Stroke is the leading cause of disability of adults in the United States and is the third leading cause of death, reports MedlinePlus. Depending on the severity of your stroke, physical therapy can be beneficial in helping your regain your strength and mobility. Your doctor will help determine when it is safe to begin your post-stroke physical therapy.

Considerations

Always follow your doctor's instructions when beginning an exercise program. Depending on your specific condition, your doctor may recommend that you participate in a medically-supervised exercise program or you may be cleared to exercise on your own. Exercise can be done safely, even if you are a stroke survivor, but it can include some risks. Your doctor or health-care provider can help determine if the benefits outweigh the risks.

Aerobic Exercise

Large-muscle aerobic activities are typically part of your post-stroke physical therapy. Aerobic exercises, including walking or cycling on a stationary bike, are recommended by the American Heart Association to improve your leg mobility and strength. Gradually work your way up to 20 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise at least three days each week. Your physical therapist can help you determine the proper exercise intensity for your needs and ability.

Strength Training

Strength training exercises for your legs are also recommended. Your physical therapist can help you develop a leg-strengthening program that fits your specific needs. Different stroke patients require different leg exercises, depending on which muscles are weak. Doing leg strengthening exercises prescribed by your physical therapist on two to three days each week is recommended.

Benefits

Strengthening your legs after suffering a stroke can help you better develop your mobility and help you return to you normal activities of daily life. Aerobic exercise and strength training can also help improve your cardiovascular fitness, which can reduce your risk of having another stroke. Regular exercise of all types can also improve your mood, relieve depression and improve your quality of life.

Expert Insight

Tom Wisenbaker, a fitness trainer who works regularly with stroke survivors, states that working your muscles through the full range of motion is what is most beneficial when strengthening your muscles. He states that changing up your routine when doing strength training exercises, including the number of repetitions, sets, speed and resistance, can help stimulate your nervous system, which can also help you improve your strength more effectively. He recommends finding a physical therapist or trainer familiar with your condition.