3 Tips For The Best Possible Post-Stroke Recovery

Health & Medical Blog

Although strokes can be life-threatening, they more often result in significant, long-term physical and cognitive disabilities. Access to various rehabilitative resources will give patients the best possible chance at regaining any lost functions and improving their quality of life.

Request A Neuropsychological Evaluation

You, or someone entrusted with your care, should request an evaluation by a clinical neuropsychologist. Since this specialty may not be widely available, you may need to travel to another locality or find avenues for a remote consultation. Neuropsychologists often work in conjunction with rehabilitative therapists and neurologists to diagnose neuropsychological problems and formulate a treatment plan. Another useful resource may be a neuropsychiatrist. Unlike a traditional psychiatrist, neuropsychiatrists are specifically trained in the ways brain injuries may contribute to mental illness, affect, and behavioral issues. Furthermore, they are aware of sensitive nature involving treatment of these conditions with medication, which can be different when someone has a brain injury.

Utilize Technology

When given the option, seek rehabilitation programs that utilize different modalities for treatment. For example, many physical and speech therapists integrate technology to assist patients in their recovery. They may use game systems or virtual reality that allows patients to physically interact with the game to improve muscle weakness or paralysis. In the case of speech therapy, computer, or app-based games where patients can verbally interact with the game can be helpful. One of the major advantages of incorporating technology is many exercises can be performed at home if the patient has access to technology or can borrow the game system. Even seemingly simple apps or games, such as those on mobile devices that help with memory and cognition may be helpful during the recovery process.

Incorporate The Arts

Art in its many forms is often an overlooked part of recovery. Music and art therapy can improve post-stroke therapy by keeping patients engaged if they are interested and also help reduce the incidence of mental illness after a stroke. In some cases, patients may be in a catatonic state after a stroke, but music can make them seem like a different person. For patients who have physical limitations after a stroke, incorporating music and dance may be a good form of therapy, even if they are unable to stand up and move. Simply utilizing different art forms as part of therapy can break the monotony or any self-defeating internal dialogue that may occur when a person feels their situation is difficult to overcome.

The aftermath of a stroke can result in long-term physical and cognitive changes that may be permanent. To boost the chance at recovery, having a good rehabilitative plan with several treatment options can lead to a better prognosis.

Check out a website like http://www.neurologist-losangeles.com for more information and assistance. 

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20 July 2017

Staying in Great Health Requires Exercise

My parents taught me healthy eating habits and I played outside a lot as a kid. Once I was old enough to work, I got a job as a waiter at a restaurant and kept waiting tables throughout high school and college. After college, I got my very first desk job, and my health started declining. I soon realized that even though I had never stepped foot in a gym, I was living a sedentary lifestyle for the first time in my life. I wasn't getting exercise playing outside or running around at work, so I decided to commit to going to the gym. My health began to improve and I now greatly enjoy bodybuilding. I know many other people are in ill health and can't figure out why, so I decided to start a blog to share my health tips and inspire everyone improve their health!