Stroke

Cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs) or strokes occur when a blood vessel that carries oxygen to the brain is either blocked or ruptures leading to decreased oxygen to a part of the brain. Strokes are the 5th leading cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S. Strokes can lead to a variety of impairments with one of the most common being one sided weakness (hemiparesis). This can alter and limit one’s ability to walk, transfer, get out of bed, or balance. Some individuals may receive therapy at rehabilitation hospitals or other facilities to help them return home safely but may not return to their prior level of function, having continued impairments. Improving walking months after a stroke can be attained by increasing the intensity and demand of walking to improve endurance, speed, and balance. This approach is prescribed on an individual basis to match the functioning level. Other interventions may include ankle-foot orthosis recommendations, dual tasking, flexibility, and specific task and balance training. A regular exercise regimen can also help prevent the incidence of future strokes (30% of stroke survivors will have a second stroke), Type II Diabetes, and high blood pressure.