During a stroke, areas of the brain lose function either permanently or temporarily. The human brain has the ability to redirect neuron pathways to compensate for lost capacity. This is where stroke rehabilitation becomes crucial. After a stroke, a person may need to relearn to do even basic tasks such as walking. The use of tools during rehab can provide support or even stimulate muscles to move during the retaining process.
Support Devices
After a stroke, one side of the body may have difficulty functioning. During this time, the brain must reroute the pathways to help support the affected areas. The stroke victim may not be able to hold the weight of the affected side during movement. A support device carries the weight for him. Selecting the correct tool depends on the extent of the damage. A therapist will help provide the necessary support devices such as a cane, walker or even parallel bars.
Electrical Stimulation
Electrical stimulation therapy uses a mild current to force movement in a muscle. The damage from the stroke may make it impossible for the victim to move specific muscles. In theses cases, electrical stimulation may help. The electrodes sit over the muscle that needs training. When the current fires, the electrical stimulation forces the muscle to contract and then relax, similar to exercise. Electrical stimulation may also help retrain muscles to move as the stimulation causes a reaction in the brain .
Constraints
Constraints help secure a working limb so the body is forced to try to move a nonworking one. For example, a leg may be constrained as the patients tries to move forward slightly. When working, the good leg is going to try to move forward because it can, and the bad leg will not move. Binding the good leg with a soft restraint takes away the option to move the working limb, and refocuses the movement.
Treadmill
A treadmill is a tool that helps long-term rehabilitation of stroke survivors. After the initial retraining is complete, walking on a treadmill can help continue the brain's attempt to rewire and improve mobility. Patients with a slow gait may find that using a treadmill helps to improve their speed and balance while walking. The treadmill should have rails on each side for support and someone should be nearby in case of an emergency.
