“What type of physical therapy is best after a stroke?”

The type of physical therapy best suited for a stroke patient depends on their specific needs and the extent of their impairment.

Therapy aimed at return of function and relearning tasks is best

Stroke is usually treated with classical rehabilitation including physical therapy for mobility and bracing, occupational therapy for hand function and ADL (activities of daily living), psychosocial adjustment, etc. Yet, there are much more that can be done to further improve function but never being done.  Following stroke, a patientwith hemiparesis walks in an unbalanced manner, twisting and straining the residualmuscles of the lower limb on the paralyzed side, while overloading the unaffectedside, causing soft tissue injury to both sides, in addition to any preexistinginjuries. Neck, shoulders, arms, ribcage, and low back may also be strained from using a cane. There is also a factor of stroke with neurologicalsynergy which naturally tightens flexors in the upper limb and extensors in thelower limb when moving the affected side. Any stimulation to the strained muscle/fascia onthe affected side can irritate the injury to trigger synergy and clonus (rapid jerkytwitching). The muscle/fascia strain mustbe resolved in order to eliminate such triggering. Those injuries expectedly cause tightness, tenderness,pain, limited strength/endurance, and thus decreased function. Thiscan be successfully treated with light touch, i.e., Touch-and-Hold of The Precision Method to gain much improvement of flexibility, strength, endurance and gait in addition to relief of pain. This is detailed in my book "NO MORE PAIN  All Pain Considered - A Breakthrough". Please visit my website: http://NoMorePainClinic.com.  

Physical therapy at your local hospital tends to be the best option or a rehab hospital.

Greetings, the type of physical therapy will depend on what damage was caused by the stroke and what parts of the body were affected. Occupational therapy is very helpful as well. It is usually a combination of two that will help the recovery process.

Both physical therapy and occupational therapy are recommended. Goal is to adjust to post stoke limitations and maximize abilities towards independent lifestyle. Pt and OTs work very well.

physical and occupational therapy can help and if the stroke affected his speech, speech therapy

There are physical therapists that specialize in neurological conditions, like stroke. I would search for a Neuro PT specialist.

Yes, PT can help with Neurological injury such as stroke. Neuro- rehabilitation if provided at the right time can help fasten stroke recovery, of course dependent on various factors such as age, level of stroke and the intensity.

You are looing for someone specialized in neuro rehab

There are various board certified specialties in PT, one of which is the Neurologic Certified Specialist (NCS). I'd highly recommend someone with their neurology specialization and/or geriatric specialization (GCS).