Neurological Physiotherapy For Stroke
The neurological physiotherapists at Liverpool Neuro Physio commonly treat conditions such as stroke. Stroke is the single most common cause of severe disability.
What is a stroke?
A stroke is the term used for a disturbance in the supply of blood to the brain which can result in brain damage. When stroke occurs the brain cells do not receive a supply of blood, this supply of blood carries nutrients and oxygen to the cells so they can continue. The lack of nutrients and oxygen to the cells results in them becoming damaged or dying. A stroke is different in every individual; the body parts affected depends on the part of the brain that is affected.
There are two types of stroke the first is caused by a blockage this is called an ischaemic stroke, the blockage is caused by a clot in an artery carrying blood to the brain. The second is caused by a bleed, this is when a blood vessel bursts causing bleeding in the brain this is called haemorrhagic stroke.
Physiotherapy is beneficial to anyone who has suffered from a stroke because it can help to treat symptoms that make an individuals quality of life poor.
Symptoms of a stroke vary depending on where the stroke has affected on the brain, some of the common symptoms of a stroke may include:
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Paralysis
- Slurred speech
- Visual problems
- Confusion
- Severe headache
Effects of a stroke?
The effects of stroke on the body depends on the part of the brain that has been affected. All strokes are different and vary in their severity. Some are mild and their symptoms may only last a few minute, whereas some are more severe and the symptoms can last longer. There are several effects a stroke can have on the body depending on the nature of the stroke.
Weakness or paralysis
One of the most common effects of a stroke, it usually occurs on one side of the body (hemiplegic). Weakness in a limb is often made worse by muscle stiffness (spasticity) of a joint and the muscles surrounding.
Swallowing
Around half of those who have suffered from a stroke have a difficulty swallowing (dysphasia) following a stroke.
Speech and Language
Many of those who have suffered from a stroke may have problems understanding (receptive aphasia) and speaking (expressive dysphasia), reading and writing. Those affected by a stroke may suffer from a mixture of both.
Sight
After a stroke some people may suffer with visual impairments, this could include blindness, a blind spot in the field of vision or seeing double.
Pain
Post stroke pain is another problem that maybe encountered by the individual who has suffered from a stroke. It is commonly found in the shoulder due to muscle spasticity.
Incontinence
Problems controlling bladder or bowels maybe an issue after a stroke.
Memory
After a stroke the affected individual may find it difficult to remember things. They may find it hard to concentrate, learning new information, making decisions and solving problems.
Depression
1 in 5 people are said to suffer depression after a stroke. However most people recover from depression within a year after stroke.
Other health problems
After a stroke an individual maybe more at risk developing other health problem. Not due to the stroke but the stroke may have left the individual more vulnerable in some way.
Physiotherapy Treatment For Stroke
Our specialist physiotherapists at Liverpool Neuro Physio treat individuals who have suffered from stroke regularly. Our specialist neurological physiotherapists will work with you to create a treatment plan specific for you. This will allow you to get the most out of your treatment. Your treatment at Liverpool neuro physio will strive to improve or maintain as much movement and function as possible making your quality of life better. Some of the physiotherapy treatment at Liverpool Neuro Physio may involve:
- Improving your walking
- Reducing any muscle spasticity and joint stiffness
- Helping to improve or maintain arm function and range of movement
- Improving your transfers
- Reducing risk of chest infection
- Improving balance (sitting, standing, walking)
- Increasing independence
- Reducing the risk of falls
- Reducing pain
Recovery after a stroke is fastest in the first few weeks after physiotherapy treatment but then will slow down. Physiotherapy often starts in the hospital but to gain the maximum functional benefits you should continue outside of hospital. Liverpool neuro physio will use specific exercise techniques and massage to keep your muscles and joints working well so you can continue with your daily activities as independently as possible. Our physiotherapists will aim for you to regain as much movement and mobility as possible. Your physiotherapist will also take into consideration any other symptoms you may be experiencing.
Your physiotherapist will help you and your family/ carer to understand the condition and any impairment you may have been left with after the stroke. Early treatment in stroke rehabilitation is the most effective to prevent any joint stiffness and tightness. Our physiotherapists at Liverpool Neuro Physio will provide you with good positioning techniques to improve your posture, balance and comfort. By doing this your safety will improve and you will be at less risk of falls or injury.
Your physiotherapist at Liverpool Neuro Physio can provide you with any necessary equipment that you may require after your stroke. This could include walking sticks to support your balance whilst walking. Items such kitchen cutlery that is easier to use may also be provided. These items will be provided after full assessment by your physiotherapist and issued to you if you require them.
Exercises and treatment programmes can be adapted to suit your needs. Your physiotherapist will want you to be as independent as possible therefore they will want you to continue your exercise program between your sessions. Your physiotherapist will teach your exercise program to your family/ carers so you can continue with them whenever required.
To arrange an appointment or to speak to one of our specialists, call us on 0151 558 0188 or email office@liverpoolneurophysio.co.uk.