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Chances are you would never think or dream of finding yourself in a situation where you experienced a stroke. We all read news and tips on what we can do to reduce the risk of having a stroke and how we can eat to reduce the risk of stroke. How does exercise fit into the post-stroke event?
The Problem
The unfortunate truth is that most stroke survivors never fully recover and six months post event 40% of survivors have trouble performing simple tasks such as getting dressed. Stroke is the leading cause of long term disability in the United States. Long term disability may be a result of:
- Reduced performance in activities of daily living.
- Increased risk of falling.
- Increased risk of another stroke of heart related event.
Researchers have found that the activity limitations often lead to a sedentary lifestyle despite the ability to perform higher levels of exercise.
This leads us to the solution to living a chronic sedentary lifestyle.
The current standard of care is for early mobilization post event. Then once medically cleared to begin an exercise program with Physical and Occupational Therapists designed for the following goals:
- improve motor recovery (function, balance & strength)
- motor skills
- occupational and leisure activities
Once someone has gone through stroke rehabilitation with Physical and Occupational Therapists they should focus on developing and maintaining an active lifestyle that meets recommended physical activity and exercise guidelines for prevention of recurrent stroke and cardiac events and improving function.
Remember to always follow your doctor’s and physical and occupational therapists recommendations before beginning an exercise program.
Body By Brent has the necessary experience to help those individuals who have suffered a stroke and have gone through stroke rehabilitation. We will sit down and talk about where you are now physically and design the exercise program to reach the following goals:
- Improved cardiovascular fitness
- Improved walking ability
- Improved muscle strength
Don’t delay and get your function back today!
