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Stroke Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is the cornerstone of management of stroke.
Depending on the severity of symptoms and how soon the patient
is alert and able to start exercises, in or out of bed, the
rehabilitation (rehab) program can begin. Most stroke rehab
programs last several weeks to months, in and out of hospital.
Rehab involves the following therapies:
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Physical therapy concentrates on exercises
to build muscle strength and teaches ways to move safely with
weak or paralyzed muscles.
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Occupational therapy focuses on personal
care, dressing, grooming, and self-feeding.
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Speech therapy retrains language and
communication functions.
Many regain full function of the affected limbs but the
majority of individuals continue to have some weakness or
stiffness for the rest of their lives. Even so, the deficit may
not prevent independence or return to work. With the help of
therapists and caregivers many are able to master all the
activities of daily living even with a disability. The earlier
this is achieved the better. Caregivers are encouraged to attend
some of the rehab sessions where they can learn directly from
the therapists.
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