ADULT REHABILITATION · Health guide
The Rehabilitation Process After Stroke
Goals for movement, communication and daily independence in rehabilitation after stroke: safe transfers, family training and follow-up.
Updated: · General information
What is a stroke?
A stroke is an emergency caused by blockage of a cerebral blood vessel or by bleeding. Sudden weakness of the face, arm or leg, or disturbance of speech or vision, may occur. If new symptoms appear, do not wait for a rehabilitation appointment — call the emergency number. In the period that follows, the extent of involvement and of recovery varies from person to person.
Managing the risk of recurrence
Blood pressure, diabetes, cardiac rhythm disorders, smoking and other risk factors are assessed by the relevant physicians. Rehabilitation does not replace this medical follow-up. Correct use of medication and the recommended check-ups must be maintained alongside the exercise programme.
The rehabilitation approach
Rehabilitation is planned once the person’s medical condition allows. Needs relating to movement, communication, swallowing and daily self-care are assessed by different specialties. There is no fixed deadline for recovery that applies to everyone; goals are updated during follow-up. Family training and adaptation of the environment form part of the process.
How are the first goals chosen?
Once the person’s medical condition allows, skills such as sitting, turning in bed, standing up and using the arm are assessed. Problems with the visual field, attention, communication and swallowing also affect daily safety. The programme is prepared with regard not only to the affected side but to the person as a whole and to the home environment.
The support of relatives and the role of repetition
Safe transfers and protection of the shoulder are practised with carers; the person is never lifted by pulling on the affected arm. Meaningful repetitions directed at everyday tasks are built into the programme. A new facial droop, deterioration of speech or sudden weakness of the arm or leg must not be attributed to the earlier stroke: emergency services must be called.
Your questions
Patient information
Does improvement in walking indicate full recovery?
No. Hand use, communication, cognitive skills and swallowing are assessed separately. The goals and the rate of progress can differ in each area.
Is a robotic device necessary for everyone?
In suitable patients, such devices can support the programme. The choice is made according to the person’s strength, participation and goals; on its own, it does not guarantee an outcome.
