We understand that recovering after a stroke can be a confusing journey. Often, it is helpful for people that have suffered a stroke and their caregivers to have an idea about what to expect. With the abundance of stroke-related research, it’s important to remember that every stroke, just like every person, is different! For example, pre-existing conditions, complications and unexpected side effects can affect how a person moves through a typical recovery timeline. Below we list the typical steps in a stroke recovery timeline:

Acute care

Acute care is the time immediately after a stroke, typically within the first 7 days. During this time, internal systems, such as breathing and heart rates, are stabilized by medical professionals to try to prevent a recurrence.
Rehab exercises and protocols are usually not done at this time unless cleared by the physician. A therapist may visit and help change positions to reduce joint stiffness, swelling and pressure sores.

Acute rehabilitation

Acute care is the time immediately after a stroke, typically within the first 7 days. During this time, internal systems, such as breathing and heart rates, are stabilized by medical professionals to try to prevent a recurrence.
Rehab exercises and protocols are usually not done at this time unless cleared by the physician. A therapist may visit and help change positions to reduce joint stiffness, swelling and pressure sores.

Exercises during this period may focus on:

• Self-care training: Self-care training focuses on adapting to perform everyday tasks, such as dressing and eating.
• Mobility training: Mobility training focuses on learning to use a cane or walker, if needed.
• Functional electrical stimulation: Electrical stimulation is used to help jump-start muscles that need a nudge to perform functional activities, like holding a spoon or turning a door knob.
• Daily exercise routines: Daily exercise routines are important to see results. This is because the consistency in performing tasks helps create the repetition that is required to continue progressing.

Long term rehabilitation

At this point 1 year post-stroke, most people have returned home or to a long term care facility.
Although most motor and functional recovery happens in the first 3 months, there is evidence that therapy is helpful throughout a person’s lifetime. For this reason, it’s important to never give up, neuroplasticity never expires!

Here are options to continue rehab at home:

• Virtual reality: New technology is available which takes advantage of the brain’s ability to rewire itself. To learn more, check out the fun and engaging Neofect Smart Rehab products.
• Wearable devices: Devices Maintain the gains you have achieved through monitoring continued exercise with a wearable fitness device.
• Robotic assistance- impaired limbs sometimes need a little extra help. Check out the Neofect NeoMano to find out about assistive grip technology.

To learn more about Neofect smart rehab devices, call (888) 623-8984 or email info@neofect.com.