During a stroke, the blood supply to any part of the brain is interrupted. A stroke can leave a patient debilitated, in chronic pain and dependent upon others. Starting a rehabilitation program soon after a stroke, improves the chance of rehabilitation. Early, high quality occupational therapy can assist the patient in regaining his ability to perform activities of daily living independently or with minimal assistance.
Stroke Effects
After a stroke occurs, therapy begins within 24 to 48 hours in the hospital because early intervention is needed for optimal rehabilitation. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke reports that stroke is the leading cause of adult disability. Disabilities that strokes can cause include sensory disturbances, movement control, paralysis, speech and understanding, emotional disturbances and memory problems.
Rehabilitation Goals
Rehabilitation and occupational therapy are started soon after a stroke occurs to prevent future strokes, avoid complications from a stroke, help the patient regain independence and regain occupational skills. Recovery time after a stroke will differ with each patient. It will depend on what part of the brain was affected during the stroke. Early intervention can help a stroke victim regain movement, speech and thinking. Improvement has been noted in patients months to years after a stroke.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists rehabilitate stroke patients to perform activities of daily living close to if not at the same level that they were able to perform prior to a having their stroke. Patients who receive occupational therapy in an early stage of recovery are less likely to experience deterioration and are more likely to meet their rehabilitation goals. The American Occupational Therapy Association reports that physical, mental and cognitive challenges are addressed during this form of therapy. A holistic approach is used in occupational therapy in which the patient's needs, wants, activities, environment and limitations are taken into account. Home equipment that can assist a person in caring for themselves may be recommended by the occupational therapist. Strength and physical endurance are evaluated and worked on during this form of therapy as well as memory recall and confidence.
Physical Therapy
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, stroke patients should receive physical therapy shortly after a stroke with emphasis placed on Isolated movements. The therapy should work toward movements that require high amounts of balance and coordination, such as walking stairs or standing on one foot. Physical therapists focus on impaired limbs, teaching alternate ways of accomplishing tasks with new deficits and providing ongoing exercise programs. A behavior called non-use is when a stroke patient avoids using limbs that are impaired but physical therapist encourage repetitive use of these limbs which helps reduce disabilities.
