Physiotherapy for Stroke (CVA)

Physiotherapy is an integral component of your road to recovery from a Stroke. Stroke known as a cerebrovascular accident is a result of lack of oxygen to the brain due to a clot causing decreased blood flow, or ruptured vessel in the brain. Physiotherapy applied early in the patient journey will improve, function, health, and independence.

Signs and Symptoms

• FAST -Face drooping, Arm Weakness, Speech difficulties, Time to call 911
• Weakness of the face, arm and leg on one side of the body with decreased sensation, changes in vision, decreased cognitive function
• Decreased coordination, double vision, dizziness, deafness
• Sudden severe headache, loss of consciousness, nausea, vomiting

Causes

• High blood pressure
• high cholesterol
• smoking
• physical inactivity
• arrhythmia

Goal of Physiotherapy

After a stroke, there are several layers of intervention. Upon primary presentation, time is of the essence. After surgical, medical, and acute care modalities, care transitions functional daily living support and rehabilitation. Goals of physiotherapy involve,

• acute care
  • prevention of recurrent events, mobilization, and screening
• Rehab care
  • Setting rehab goals
  • Manage motor deficits
  • Prevent and treat complications
• Community reintegration
  • Coordinate continuity of care

Treatment for Stroke

• Improve motor control
  • Use several different techniques for sensory stimulation to facilitate movement.
• Learning theory approach
  • Conductive education and motor relearning theory
• Functional electrical stimulation
  • Help restore motor control, spasticity, and hemiplegia
• Biofeedback
• Limb physiotherapy
  • Use of passive and assistive care devices.
• Other treatments include
  • Tone management, Sensory re-education, Balance retraining, Fall prevention, Gait re-education, Functional mobility training

Seniors Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy is important in our geriatric population to maintain functional independence as the cohort ages. This form of physiotherapy focuses on medical conditions experienced by older adults. Strength, balance, and mobility are core functions focused on to prevent future injuries with effective geriatric physiotherapy.

Common Medical Conditions

• Osteoporosis
• Arthritis
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Cancer
• Joint replacements

Goal of Physiotherapy

A comprehensive geriatric assessment has shown to improve longevity and quality of life post hospital discharge.  Goals of therapy involve restoring mobility, minimizing pain, enhancing fitness, with the long run hopes of improving independence of the patient. Not only will rehab improve function, but increase confidence and help patients remain active and involved in life.

Treatments

• Exercise
  • Stretching, walking, and exercises specific to trouble spots.
• Manual Therapy
  • Manipulate and massage joints and muscles to improve circulation nd reduce pain.
• Education
  • Inform patient on safer and more advantageous methods of performing daily activities
    • Assistive device training
    • Transfer training

If you need to see a physiotherapist in Toronto click here, or use the link below for a different location.

Click here to book an appointment or call 1 888-825-7045.

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