“Regaining strength after a stroke”
My mom had a stroke recently. I don't know a lot of the details. She doesn't seem to have many physical limitations but is weak. What might be the best exercise to help her?
22 Answers
Jason Markle
Physiatrist (Physical Medicine)
Every stroke patient is very unique, but getting in to see a physical therapist who specializes in stroke rehabilitation is important as they can assist in limiting and improving on her weakness to maximize her independence and overall function. In addition, a PM&R specialist can assist in the recovery with medication adjustments and ordering assistive devices (if needed) as well.
Physiotherapy helps
You may want to consult a rehabilitation expert for this particular advice. Physical therapist who is certified may be able to help your mother with the exercises.
I hope that helps you
Dr. KH Lim
I hope that helps you
Dr. KH Lim
At present, simple walking, slowly, perhaps with a walker if she is unstable.
Les
Les
I have no medical history so balance is a problem and if course weakness. Is it left side or right side stroke? I would go to a rehab physio and get on a full rehab program. Certain rehab centers have out patient facilities. It's of the most importance to get her back to as full optimal health as possible. These centers can do wonders.
Hi there sorry to hear about your mom. The best exercise program should be taylored to her current physical abilities or limitations after an evaluation by Physiatrist or Physical Therapist. Walking, stationary bike or swimming are a great start if she is able to. Good luck!
She needs physical therapy, exercises to regain muscle strength. That is key in management of post stroke patients.
SHE IS LUCKY AND SO NO LIMITATIONS. BEST IS TO INCREASE STRENGTH BY-- GOOD DIET, GENTLE EXERCISES OF UPPER LOWER EXTREMETIES- USE ONE TO TWO POUNDS WEIGHT. SHE CAN INCREASE TO 5 LBS, ROM EXERCISES CAN HELP WALKING TWICE DAILY. STOP RESTING TIME INCREASE ACTIVITIES TIME. SUPPORT HER, GIVE COMPANY, MILD DEPRESSION CAN ALSO MAKE - NO INTEREST, NO ENERGY- WEAKNESS. DRINK LOTS OF WATER TILL 6 PM. REST IN BED FOR 7 HOURS -SLEEP. HELP HER BY ONE HOUR OF AFTERNOON SLEEP. BREATH DEEP, INCREASE IRON INTAKE BY FOODS, CONTROL WEIGHT, CONTROL CALORIES INTAKE. BEST LUCK, GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
She needs to see primary physician for general work up. It is common that Mary patient feels weak after stroke and being in bed rest for days. Physiatrist is expert on stroke rehabilitation. Please take your mom to seek help.
She should participate in a stroke REHAB program.
Speak to the neurologist who cared for her and have him/her refer your mom to a rehabilitation facility.
Without the opportunity to see her it's hard to say. She should be seen by rehab medicine for a consult. I also note patients are somewhat depressed post stroke , and that could be part of the problem, also she may be dehydrated and perhaps not on a good diet with proper nutrition and vitamins, botom line is that she should be seen by a comprehensive doctor.
It has to be a significant stroke to make someone debelitated. Minor stroke or TIA ususlly has very good recovery. Patients in general shd be involved on PT/Ot and general exercise program.
Steven M. Simon
Physiatrist (Physical Medicine)
Ask her PMR doc! Answer depends on her balance, general health and strength as well as where the defects exist and their extent. A,personal program will be needed and can't be done properly without an exam
Julia G. Ansari
Cardiologist
Depending on which location in the brain suffered from a stroke people have various degree of deficit. She would benefit from physical therapy to work on weight training on upper and lower ext. A physical therapist can assess what is her main deficit and tailor the exercise to strengthen that muscle group.
That is too hard to say without a good physical exam. In general, find what muscles are weak, and work to strengthen those areas. Weakness is common following a stroke and it will be important to work at regaining her strength to limit any physical limitations with her daily life. PT's are great at helping out with this!
Damien Daniel
Physiatrist (Physical Medicine)
It depends on a lot of the details of how the stroke has affected her, but the general principles are the same for people who haven't had a stroke. The muscles to be strengthened should be isolated as much as possible, resistance should be added, and the exercise should be repetitive. For a stroke patient the repetition helps neuroplasticity - the building of new neural pathways to bypass those damaged by the stroke. Walking, either outdoor or on a treadmill (scare), and pool based hydrotherapy or swimming are the best exercises for strengthening the large muscle groups (e.g.. quads and hamstrings in legs and biceps, pec major in the upper limb). A good physiotherapist (physical therapist), especially one who works with stroke patients will be able to design and monitor a graduated exercise program for your mother. Good luck. NOTE: The weakness may also be a manifestation of fatigue which is a very big factor after a stroke. Again exercise (and time) is the best treatment.
That's impossible to know exactly, not knowing your mom. But usually stroke patients get involved with a physical therapist. There are so many reasons for generalized weakness, that I am not sure exercise is right for all situations (e.g. low potassium). A full evaluation would be advisable.
Naji Kholaif
Cardiologist
The best way to go is to have your mom evaluated by a physical therapist who has experience in stroke patients. They give detailed plans that are customized toward each individual patient. We see a great deal of improvement with patients who do supervised physical therapy, a lot of whom regain most of their strength.
Her best bet would be to have a comprehensive physical therapy evaluation where her limitations are identified. A physical therapist will devise a treatment plan that is specific to her needs to maximize her strength, mobility and overall function.
Juan P. Montoya
Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Unfortunately, I can't answer that question. Many stroke patients recover fully and others regain a lot of functionality. To better answer your question, you should ask a physical therapist or physiatrist. Sounds like she needs full rehabilitation. Hope this helps!
A comprehensive therapy program including physical and occupational therapy, overseen by a rehabilitation physician, is my recommendation. This could be done through home health therapy services, or by going to an outpatient therapy clinic. Preferably, therapists who specialize in neuro-rehab.
