What is a stroke and its main types?

A stroke occurs when part of the brain stops receiving oxygen and nutrients. Main types are ischemic stroke (artery blockage) and hemorrhagic stroke (brain bleeding), each causing different neurological deficits.

Why is neurological physiotherapy important after a stroke?

Neurological physiotherapy aids recovery by restoring motor function, improving balance and coordination, reducing pain and spasticity, and supporting emotional wellbeing to increase independence and quality of life.

When is the best time to start physiotherapy after a stroke?

The first six months are crucial due to heightened neuroplasticity; starting specialized physiotherapy early maximizes the brain’s capacity to reorganize and improves long-term functional outcomes.

How to choose a physiotherapist for stroke rehabilitation?

Select a physiotherapist specialized in neurological rehabilitation with stroke experience, thorough initial assessment skills, good communication, and family involvement; avoid choosing solely by price.

What techniques are used in neurological physiotherapy for stroke?

Common techniques include mobility and stretching exercises, mirror therapy, constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT), and functional electrical stimulation (FES) to improve strength and function.

What role does family involvement play in stroke rehabilitation?

Family involvement provides practical support for daily tasks and exercises, improves adherence, and creates an empathetic environment that enhances motivation and emotional recovery.

Neurological physiotherapy in stroke-affected individuals

Physiotherapist Alejandro Caraballo of NeuroFisio Sevilla explores in this article how physiotherapy can make a difference in rehabilitation for people affected by stroke and what should be taken into account when choosing a physiotherapist.

Stroke can change life in an instant, affecting basic functions like walking or speaking. Neurological physiotherapy is an essential tool for recovery, helping patients improve their quality of life.

What is a stroke and why is it so devastating?

A stroke is like someone switching off a light in your brain. In an instant, part of your brain stops receiving oxygen and nutrients, and that can cause permanent damage.

There are two main types:

Ischemic stroke, which is like a traffic jam on a road (a blockage in an artery)
Hemorrhagic stroke, which is like a burst pipe (a brain hemorrhage)

The emotional and physical impact of stroke

A stroke doesn’t only affect you physically. Suddenly, you find yourself relying on others for things as simple as dressing or eating. Paralysis, difficulty speaking and loss of balance are common. And this doesn’t just affect the patient, but also their family. This is where neurological physiotherapy comes into play as a key ally that helps patients reclaim their lives.

The key is timing and quality: choose your physiotherapist wisely!

Importance of the first six months

Time is crucial in stroke recovery. The first six months are vital due to a phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. This is the period when the brain has an increased capacity to reorganize and adapt after injury. It’s as if the brain has a window of opportunity to relearn.

Look for the best physiotherapists

Not all physiotherapists are the same. It’s essential to find a specialist in neurological physiotherapy who has experience and specific knowledge in stroke rehabilitation. This is where many people make a crucial mistake: they choose based on price. Paying a few euros more can make a huge difference. We are not talking about an investment comparable to buying a luxury car like a BMW versus a Fiat Punto. The cost difference is not that big, but the impact on recovery can be enormous. Remember, you are risking the quality of life and the recovery of your loved one.

Family involvement: a crucial factor

Recovering from a stroke is not a solitary task. Family involvement is vital. A good physiotherapist will not only work with the patient, but will also know how to involve and encourage the family in the process. The family should be informed and prepared to support with daily tasks and rehabilitation exercises. An empathetic and communicative physiotherapist will make a difference, creating a positive and supportive environment that is crucial for recovery.

The importance of a good initial assessment

More than the treatment itself, the initial assessment is fundamental. This first visit is key to understanding the patient’s physical and cognitive status. Every stroke is unique, and the physiotherapist must tailor the treatment to the patient’s specific needs. Some patients may not be aware of the magnitude of their condition, and others may have suffered impairments to their cognitive abilities. A good physiotherapist will evaluate all these factors to design an effective treatment plan.

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What does neurological physiotherapy do and why is it crucial?

Recovery of motor functions

Neurological physiotherapy uses specific exercises to help you regain control of your muscles. It’s not just about moving an arm or a leg, but about regaining confidence in every step you take.

Improves balance and coordination

After a stroke, keeping your balance can feel like walking a tightrope. Neurological physiotherapy includes fun and challenging activities that help you improve your balance and coordination, making you feel more confident and less prone to falls.

Increased independence

One of the greatest gifts of neurological physiotherapy is the independence. Imagine being able to dress yourself, walk to the corner shop, or even return to some of your favorite hobbies. This is possible thanks to exercises designed to improve your daily skills.

Reduction of pain and spasticity

Pain and spasticity (that annoying muscle stiffness) can make everything more difficult. Neurological physiotherapy uses stretching and massage techniques that relieve pain and increase your comfort.

Improvement of mental and emotional health

Recovering your body also means recovering your mind. Neurological physiotherapy gives you small victories every day, and those victories build your self-esteem and reduce anxiety and depression.

Techniques used in neurological physiotherapy

Mobility exercises

These exercises are designed to improve joint mobility and muscle flexibility. They may include passive and active stretches, as well as controlled movements of the limbs.

Mirror therapy

Mirror therapy is used to help patients regain movement in affected limbs. It involves using a mirror to trick the brain into believing the affected limb is moving correctly.

Constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT)

This technique involves restricting the use of the unaffected limb, forcing the patient to use the affected limb. This can help improve function and strength in the affected limb.

Functional electrical stimulation (FES)

FES uses electrical currents to stimulate muscles and improve their function. This can be especially useful for patients with severe muscle weakness.

The crucial role of the physiotherapist

Neurological physiotherapists are like life coaches, motivating and guiding patients every step of the way. They don’t just focus on the body, but also on the mind and spirit. The quality of physiotherapy is key, and having professionals expert in neurological physiotherapy can make a big difference in the patient’s recovery.

How neurological physiotherapy can change lives

Neurological physiotherapy is not just about recovering physical functions; it’s also about giving patients back the confidence and the ability to lead a full and active life. Every small progress is a step toward greater independence and a better quality of life.

Conclusion

Neurological physiotherapy is essential for the recovery of patients who have suffered a stroke. It offers countless benefits that can significantly improve patients’ quality of life, helping them regain their independence and emotional well-being. If you or a loved one has suffered a stroke, don’t hesitate to consider neurological physiotherapy as part of your recovery plan. Remember, choosing a good physiotherapist can make all the difference.

Bibliography

World Health Organization. (2023). Stroke. Retrieved from [https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/stroke](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/stroke)
American Stroke Association. (2022). Life After Stroke. Retrieved from [https://www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke/life-after-stroke](https://www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke/life-after-stroke)
Mayo Clinic. (2023). Stroke Rehabilitation. Retrieved from [https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/stroke-rehabilitation/about/pac-20394656](https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/stroke-rehabilitation/about/pac-20394656)