#Lifestyle

#Motivation

#Neofect Solutions

#Rehabilitation

We can’t predict the timeline for when a stroke may affect a particular person. But we can definitely spread awareness about risk factors.

Knowledge is Power: Stroke Risk Factors



We can’t predict the timeline for when a stroke
[https://www.neofect.com/us/blog/what-are-the-different-types-of-stroke] may
affect a particular person. But we can definitely spread awareness about risk
factors that are likely to increase the chances of having a stroke. When you
have more knowledge about these risk factors, you can determine which ones may
be the most relevant to you. You can take charge of the treatable risk factors,
and you can be prepared with what signs to look for when a stroke is happening.
Above all else, if you or someone you know starts to show signs of a stroke,
know that a stroke is a medical emergency. Call 9-1-1 and get to the hospital in
order to save brain cells and save a life.

Let’s talk about stroke risk factors that none of us can control. Though you
can’t erase these factors from potentially impacting your life, you can use your
increased awareness to empower yourself and be prepared in case stroke symptoms
do make an appearance in your life.

Genetics
Families pass down certain traits through the generations, and we inherit genes
that may make us more prone to certain diseases. Also, it is likely that family
members may adopt similar habits and routines as those who came before them,
which may include things like inactivity or smoking. If someone in your family
has had a stroke, it makes it more likely that you could have one, too -
especially if that person is your sibling, parent, or grandparent.



Age
The older we get, the greater our chance of having a stroke. In fact, the chance
of stroke doubles every 10 years past age 55. But remember, people much younger
can have strokes, too - including babies.

Sex
Women tend to have more strokes than men, and face more deadly responses to
having a stroke. They also tend to have strokes when they are older, which may
be related to women generally living longer than men. Some of the gender
discrepancy may also be related to hormonal factors that only women face:
pregnancy, hormonal birth control, and hormonal supplements for menopause.



Race/ethnicity
Populations with a higher risk include: African Americans, Hispanics and
Latinos, American Indians, and Alaskan Natives; their risk is higher than those
in non-Hispanic Caucasian and Asian populations.

Prior TIA, stroke, or heart attack
A TIA (transient ischemic attack) is a warning sign for an upcoming stroke, and
should be taken seriously: you are 10 times more likely to have a full stroke
after experiencing a TIA. After having one stroke, you are also more likely to
experience another one in your lifetime. If you have had a heart attack, the
buildup and clogging of the arteries that caused it can also cause you to have a
“brain attack” (a stroke).

Now that we’ve gotten those out of the way, let’s talk about the risk factors
that you can take charge of. Talk to your doctor about your own personal health
profile, so that you know which factors affect you. Once your doctor helps you
to come up with a good plan for medications, diet, exercise, and/or smoking
cessation, stick with the plan as carefully as you can. Remember that we don’t
have a say over some risk factors, so the ones we can treat and manage are that
much more critical. See related posts for healthy lifestyle tips that you can
use while you navigate managing your risk factors.

High blood pressure
Hypertension (chronically high blood pressure) can result in too much force on
the walls of your arteries. Over time, this pressure can cause hardening,
thickening, and damage to the blood vessels, which can lead to a stroke (or a
heart attack). Often, hypertension goes hand in hand with other risk factors
that can also be controlled, such as diet and exercise. Luckily, high blood
pressure is easy to detect, and relatively easy to control with medications and
some lifestyle updates such as healthier diet and more exercise.



High blood cholesterol
When cholesterol is out of control (hyperlipidemia), it can build up and clog
arteries with fatty deposits. As the blood vessels start to get clogged up, the
blood can no longer flow freely and it gets blocked on its way to the brain and
heart. Pieces of the fatty deposits can also break free and form clots which
more quickly block off blood flow and can result in a stroke. Again, high
cholesterol also goes hand in hand with other risk factors that can be managed,
such as diet and exercise. Medications can also help manage high cholesterol.

Uncontrolled diabetes
Having type I or type II diabetes greatly increases your chances of having heart
disease or stroke, especially as you get older (65 and up). Diabetes is another
contributing factor to blood vessel disease, which can lead to stroke (or heart
problems). Often there are other risk factors that go with type II diabetes
(such as inactivity, poor dietary habits, and high blood pressure and
cholesterol), making it even more important to take charge of these factors.
Make sure to check your blood sugar regularly, and take medications consistently
as prescribed.

Poor dietary habits
Eating too much of certain types of foods
[https://www.neofect.com/us/blog/is-there-a-good-diet-for-stroke] can increase
your overall risk of stroke by impacting some of the other risk factors
mentioned above. Foods with a lot of saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol
can increase your cholesterol levels. These include foods like: fatty beef, dark
meat chicken, butter, fast food, crackers, cookies, lard, and shortening. Foods
with a lot of sodium can increase your blood pressure. Some examples of these
foods are: smoked meats, bacon, and canned entrees. Foods high in calories can
increase obesity, which also contributes to other risk factors (diabetes, high
blood pressure, and high cholesterol). Some examples of these foods are: sugary
drinks, pizza, white bread, and pastries.



Inactivity
Being more sedentary or less active is linked to increased blood pressure,
cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity. As we know, all of those factors increase
the overall risk of stroke. Moderate-intensity activity levels can reduce your
risk of stroke, and you don’t have to worry about starting a brand new,
intensive plan. One way to get started (especially if you are mostly sedentary
throughout your day) is to stand up more and sit less during the day. Some
examples of moderate activity can be as simple as gardening, bicycling less than
10 miles an hour, walking briskly, and doing water aerobics.

Smoking
Cigarette smoking damages the heart and blood vessels, which increases your
chance of stroke. The nicotine in cigarettes increases your blood pressure,
which puts more wear and tear on your blood vessels; the carbon monoxide from
the smoke interferes with the amount of oxygen your blood carries to your organs
and hardens the vessel walls. After only a year of being smoke-free, you are on
your way to reducing your risk of heart disease (which impacts stroke risk) by
50%!



Heavy alcohol use
Drinking many alcoholic beverages daily increases your blood pressure and can
harden your blood vessels - and you now know that all of these things contribute
to an increased risk of stroke. General recommendations for alcohol limits are:
1 drink for women, and 2 drinks for men per day.



Check out other posts about healthy lifestyle tips to help you on your journey
in preventing and treating stroke.

References:

mayoclinic.org
stroke.org
heart.org
cdc.gov

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not
intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or
treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health
provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you
think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
Reliance on any information provided by the NEOFECT website is solely at your
own risk.

stroke risk factors

Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to interfere with the way our brain sends messages to our body.

Why is Energy Conservation Important for Multiple Sclerosis

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AND FATIGUE
Multiple sclerosis
[https://www.neofect.com/us/blog/what-is-multiple-sclerosis-and-how-can-an-exercise-routine-help-combat-multiple-sclerosis]
, or MS, is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to
interfere with the way our brain sends messages to our body. The brain sends
messages that travel along axons, which are protected by a myelin sheath. In
multiple sclerosis, the immune system causes inflammation to this protective
layer, which can cause scar tissue to build up along the pathway, causing
difficulties sending the correct messages to the body.


Multiple sclerosis can cause many symptoms. The symptoms may change over time as
the disease progresses. One of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis is
fatigue.

There is a high level of evidence for non-pharmacological interventions when
managing fatigue including energy conservation and exercise-based interventions.

HOW DOES ENERGY CONSERVATION HELP?
Getting dressed in the morning can be exhausting! It can be extremely
frustrating if you don’t have the energy to do anything else during the day, or
if you can’t even make it through your morning routine. But there are little
life hacks that can make your life just a little easier. These strategies are
called energy conservation. Energy conservation refers to completing tasks in
the most energy efficient way. It involves planning out your day and
prioritizing the activities that are important to you.

As an OT, I’ve devoted my life to preaching about the importance of doing the 
activities
[https://www.neofect.com/us/blog/10-tips-from-an-occupational-therapist-on-how-to-stay-committed-to-stroke-recovery-at-home] 
that are meaningful to an individual. This is going to look differently for
everyone, so it’s going to take some soul searching to look at what activities
you love and why you love them. For some people, having the ability to complete
their morning routine is everything. Some people are motivated by creative
endeavors or exercise. As we go through life and our abilities and priorities
change, we all need to re-evaluate the best ways to implement the things we find
meaningful and life giving.


If you love gardening, but aren’t able to do it in the same way, think about
what it is that gives you life. How can you meet that need in a different way?
Can you simplify your morning routine or skip it so that you have more energy?
Can you plant and care for a potted plant or raised flower bed? Are there
adaptive gardening tools that would make holding onto things easier? Sometimes,
looking at what is meaningful brings up a lot more questions before it gives any
answers, but having a specific long-term goal to focus on is beneficial to
improve quality of life.

ENERGY CONSERVATION TIPS AND TRICKS
MAKE A PLAN: Make a list of the activities you need to do throughout the week.
Include dressing, bathing, meals, laundry, cleaning, leisure activities
(watching tv is okay, but try to think of one other activity that brings a smile
to your face), and anything else that is important to you.

ASK QUESTIONS: Do you need to bathe everyday? Are there services available and
within my budget to help with meals, laundry, cleaning? Do I have more energy in
the morning or night? Do I get enough sleep? Is it possible to spread out
responsibilities?


TAKE IT EASY: Sit when you can (use a shower chair and sit while bathing, get
all your clothes together and sit down to get dressed, put your underwear and
pants on your feet before standing up, sit when doing food prep or folding
laundry).

PACE YOURSELF: You don’t have to do it all at once. Take breaks. If showering is
exhausting, rest before putting your clothes on.

You can find more energy conservation tips here.
[https://msfocusmagazine.org/Magazine/Magazine-Items/Energy-Conservation-and-Work-Simplification-for-Pe.aspx]

EXERCISE TO MANAGE FATIGUE
You might think that exercise would be the opposite of conserving energy, but it
can also be effective at managing the impact of fatigue. It’s all about balance.
The most important thing is to not overdo it.


Find an activity that you might enjoy: walking, aquatic exercises, chair yoga,
resistive training with theraband. Finding something you like will help keep you
motivated.
Take things slow. Warm up with stretches.
Make sure you’re safe. Use proper body mechanics when exercising. Take
precautions if you’re prone to falls.
Make sure to check in with your physician or therapist prior to starting an
exercise routine!

REFERENCES
Hourihan, S. J. (2015). Managing fatigue in adults with multiple sclerosis.
Nursing Standard (2014+), 29(43), 51. doi:
http://dx.doi.org/10.7748/ns.29.43.51.e9654
Khan, F., Amatya, B., & Galea, M. (2014). Management of fatigue in persons with
multiple sclerosis. Frontiers in neurology, 5, 177. doi:10.3389/fneur.2014.00177 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4163985/
Feinstein, A., Freeman, J., & Lo, A. C. (2015). Treatment of progressive
multiple sclerosis: What works, what does not, and what is needed. The Lancet
Neurology, 14(2), 194-207. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(14)70231-5 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25772898

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not
intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or
treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health
provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you
think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
Reliance on any information provided by the NEOFECT website is solely at your
own risk.

multiple sclerosis

Within the first five years after your first stroke, the likelihood of having a stroke can increase up to 40% (24% of women and 42% of men). Learn stroke prevention.

How Can I Prevent Having Another Stoke?



According to the CDC [https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/facts.htm], more than 795,000
people in the United States have a stroke every year. About 185,00 of these
strokes - nearly 1 in 4 — happen to people who have had a previous stroke.
Within the first five years after your first stroke, the likelihood of having a
stroke can increase up to 40%. Within 5 years of a stroke, 24% of women and 42%
of men will experience another stroke. On top of that, recurrent strokes have a
much higher rate of death and long term disability. Therefore if you have
suffered a stroke it is very important to make some big life changes in order to
prevent having another more severe one.

Here is a list of a few things you can do in order to prevent another stroke:



1) STOP SMOKING

Tobacco smokers are twice as likely to have a stroke. Tobacco smoke harms your
body in many different ways including thickening your blood, causing blood
clots, narrowing your arteries, and restricting oxygen in your bloodstream.



2) TAKE YOUR MEDICATION AS DIRECTED BY YOUR PHYSICIAN

Many people experience their first stroke due to high blood pressure, high
cholesterol, diabetes or coronary artery disease. People with high blood
pressure for example, are one and half times more likely to have a stroke.
Therefore if you do not take the correct medications to control these issues it
is likely that you will have another stroke.



3) STAY ACTIVE!

Exercise is very important in maintaining a healthy weight and blood pressure.
People who exercise frequently are less likely to have the contributing factors
that lead to stroke.



4) EAT A HEALTHY DIET

Eating foods with lower calories, cholestrol, trans and saturated fats can help
you maintain your weight as well as your cholestrol levels. This can
significantly decrease your chance of having another stroke.



5) DRINK ALCOHOL IN MODERATION

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to heart disease and increased blood
pressure. Drinking two or more alcoholic beverages is shown to increase the risk
of stroke by up to 50%.



6) KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS OF A STROKE

It is very important to know the warnings signs
[https://www.neofect.com/us/blog/what-are-the-warning-signs-of-stroke-in-men] of
a stroke because the faster you can get help the higher your chance of survival
and making a full recovery. The acronym for spotting warning signs of a stroke
is F.A.S.T which stands for:

F - Face drooping
A - Arm weakness
S - Speech difficulty
T - Time to call 911

Overall it is very important to identify the factors caused your first stroke
and what the contributing health issues are in order to make changes to your
lifestyle in order to prevent recurrent strokes from occuring. Most of lifestyle
changes can be easily incorporated into your daily life and can make a
tremendous difference. It is important to stay hopeful and motivated, so that
you can recover from your condition and return to normal life.

If you have had a stroke and are looking for an effective solution for your
rehabilitation needs, please look into Neofect's line of Smart Rehabilitation
Solutions [https://www.neofect.com/us].

To learn more, please call (888) 623-8984 or email contactus@neofect.com.

Stroke Prevention

Today, Let’s take a look at 7 conditions and lifestyle choices that might contribute to a higher risk of stroke.

What Causes a Stroke: 7 Major Stroke Risk Factors

Most people have heard of or been affected by stroke, however, not everyone
knows about the underlying causes and risk factors. Today, Let’s take a look at
7 conditions and lifestyle choices that might contribute to a higher risk of
stroke.


7 Major Stroke Risk Factors
1. Heredity and age

Although risk of stroke is not always genetically inherited. Studies have
demonstrated higher likelihood for stroke in those who have a family history.
Stroke risk also intensifies as we age, and doubles every ten years after the
age of 55.

2. Diabetes

Diabetes can induce atherosclerosis and commonly increases blood pressure and
dyslipidemia. These factors contribute to an increase in stroke risk by 1.8 to
2.5 times in the diabetic population.

3. Cardiovascular disease

20% stroke patients suffer from heart disease. Malfunctions in the heart can
disrupt cause the blood to collect in the vessels and create blood clots. These
blood clots can at times cause stroke by traveling to the cerebral blood vessels
and blocking blood flow to the brain.



4. High blood pressure

The two major categories of stroke are cerebral infarction and cerebral
hemorrhage, with infarction making up 80% of cases. If blood pressure is
consistently high, there is a high risk of arteriosclerotic narrowing of the
cerebral blood vessels. If this narrowing results in a complete blockage,
cerebral infarction often occurs.


5. Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia refers to a condition where cholesterol, triglycerides, and
low-density lipoproteins are too high. Conditions where high-density lipoprotein
are too low can also be referred to as hyperlipidemia. People with
hyperlipidemia are reported to have up to 1.8 to 2.6 times the risk of
developing cerebral infarction.


6. Smoking

Smoking causes blood vessels to lose their elasticity, resulting in hardened
blood vessel walls and increases in blood viscosity. Such conditions make blot
clots more common. Another concern relating to smoking involves poor oxygen
saturation to the brain. The carbon dioxide contained in cigarette smoke is
absorbed into the blood, reducing the oxygen content.


7. Alcohol and obesity


Heavy alcohol use and obesity are also compounding risk factors. Obesity can
increase the risk of stroke due to inflammation caused by excess fatty tissue .
This can lead to difficulty in blood flow and an increased risk of blockage,
both of which can cause strokes. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can
trigger atrial fibrillation – a type of irregular heartbeat. Atrial fibrillation
increases your risk of stroke by five times, as it is associated with blood
clots.

Steady management of any controllable risk factors is very important in the
prevention of stroke. Speak to your healthcare provider about your options.
If you have suffered a stroke in the past and are interested in further
rehabilitation training options check out the Neofect Solution specially
designed for stroke rehabilitation.


Neofect Home Inquiry:
-www.neofect.com [https://www.neofect.com/us]
-Phone: (888) 623-8984 [tel:+18886238984]



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A Vietnam Veteran who had 3 strokes: Michael Eustace



I went to move and I couldn’t. I moved forward and slid right onto the floor.
Started to get a little bit better and then I had another stroke. And then had
problems with the heart and wound up having 3 strokes and 1 heart attack.

I couldn’t move my arm, I couldn’t move my hand, I couldn’t do anything. At that
point I started to try to get better.
They kept saying, “What is your goal?”
I said my goal is to get up and walk again.
My goal is to get up and use my hand.

For me it was like it opened up a world of things that I could do with my hand,
and get more mobility, because it motivates you to do more. You don’t appreciate
things that you do before that you can’t do now.

"If it wasn’t for Neofect, I’d probably never bend my hand the way it is now."

Risk Factors

What are some good foods for a stroke survivor to eat? Can you drink coffee or green tea after a stroke? What else is importatnt besides diet?

Is There a Good Diet for Stroke?

What are some good foods for a stroke survivor to eat?
There is not a particular recommended diet for stroke survivors who are
recovering. On the contrary, there are no diets a stroke survivor should
strictly avoid. The most important principle is to have a balanced diet of
protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Adhering to healthy eating
habits is crucial.



It is especially important to consume fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat
foods, fish, and nuts. Vegetables not only contain essential minerals but are
also rich in nutrients and fiber. In addition, it is low in calories which is
helpful for treating or preventing obesity. Fibroid materials in fruit is better
absorbed when fruits are eaten not juiced. Fish contains high levels of
unsaturated fatty acids which should be consumed at least twice a week.

If you are worried about hyperlipidemia and completely remove meat or fish from
your diet, the supply of essential fatty acids and essential amino acids may be
insufficient. So, it is recommended that you consume an appropriate amount.
However, excessive intake of sugar and salt through instant foods, high-fat
foods, spicy, and salty foods can cause obesity, hypertension and diabetes.
Obesity may lead to allergic sclerosis, therefore you should refrain from
overeating.



Can you drink coffee or green tea after a stroke?
Long-term intake of small amounts of coffee that does not contain sugar or
non-dairy creamer is known to be effective in preventing cardiovascular disease.
But excessive intake may result in arrhythmia or cardiac arrest.

Green tea contains a kind of flavonoid called catechin. Flavonoids have
antioxidant properties and are known to reduce mortality from stroke and
cardiovascular disease when ingested long-term in low doses.



What else is important besides diet?
Stroke patients may experience slowed motor function due to paralysis and
various complications. Therefore, along with the diet, regular exercise is
necessary to maintain the motor functions. Exercise helps to maintain the
patient’s physical abilities and mental health. There may be those that feel
uncomfortable visiting sports or rehabilitation centers for exercise or
rehabilitation training due to time and distance constraints. Neofect Smart
Solution enables you to undergo rehabilitation training whenever you want at
home. If you want to learn more about www.neofect.com
[https://www.neofect.com/us], please visit our website.


---*Neofect Home Inquiry:
-www.neofect.com [https://www.neofect.com/us]
-Phone: (888) 623-8984 [tel:+18886238984]

Good Habits for Stroke

At Neofect, Stroke Awareness Month is important to us. The company and our mission to bring rehabilitation technology to people in their home environments.

7 Ideas to Lower YOUR Risk of Stroke

At Neofect [https://www.neofect.com/us], Stroke Awareness Month is important to
us. The company and our mission to bring rehabilitation technology to people in
their home environments to increase the intensity and enjoyment of the rehab
process is based on personal experience. Read more about Hoyoung Ban’s personal
story and the beginnings of the company here.

Every year we try to participate in Stroke Awareness events such as community
Stroke Fair events in conjunction with the VA or one of many Strike Out Stroke
events around the country.



80% of strokes and heart disease can be prevented and stroke is the 5th cause of
death in the US. Here are “Life’s Simple 7” ways to reduce your risk of stroke:




7 Ideas to Lower you Risk of Stroke
1. Be active
30 minutes of physical activity, 5-7 days per week is recommended to reduce your
risk, exercising with a friend or a group might be a good way to stay
accountable
Visit Go4Life for other fitness ideas and ways to stay active
www.nia.nih.gov/Go4Life


2. Control Cholesterol
Get regular check ups to monitor and manage your cholesterol


3. Eat a Healthy Diet
A brain healthy diet is high in fruits and vegetables, poultry, fish, nuts,
whole grains and low-fat dairy. Avoid red meats, sweets, sugary beverages,
saturated fats, food it high total fat and cholesterol.


4. Manage Blood Pressure and Atrial Fibrillation
Women have more strokes than men and stroke kills more women than men. 1 in 5
women is at risk of having a stroke. Conditions like atrial fibrillation
increase stroke risk by 5x and is more common in women and men after the age of
75. All women over age 75 should be screened for atrial fibrillation.


5. Maintain a Healthy Weight

6. Control Blood Sugar
If you are diabetic or pre-diabetic, you’re at a higher risk for stroke, work
with your physician or dietician to maintain an appropriate blood sugar


7. Don’t Smoke

*Neofect Home Inquiry:
-www.neofect.com [https://www.neofect.com/us]
-Phone: (888) 623-8984 [tel:+18886238984]

Research suggests an association between COVID-19 and stroke in young adults. Read more on how the novel coronavirus could increase stroke risk, symptoms to recognize, and why you should always take an ambulance in the event of a medical emergency.

COVID-19 and Stroke in Young Adults: Know the Signs to Save a Life

Our understanding of COVID-19 evolves with each passing week of the global
pandemic. This week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) added
six additional symptoms
[https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/27/health/coronavirus-symptoms-cdc.html] of the
novel coronavirus to its growing list. With worldwide cases now surpassing 3
million, another concerning association has emerged: COVID-19 may increase risk
of stroke in adults under 50 years old.

Emerging association between COVID-19 and young stroke
A physician group from Mount Sinai Hospital System in New York recently
published a report [https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2009787?query=RP] 
concerning a two-week period in March in which five adults under age 50
presented with symptoms of acute stroke. All were subsequently diagnosed with
COVID-19. This figure constitutes a greater than fivefold increase of
large-vessel stroke in adults under 50 than seen in previous weeks within the
hospital system.

On average, the five cases presented to the hospital with severe stroke (NIHSS
[https://www.neofect.com/us/blog/what-is-the-national-institutes-of-health-stroke-scale-nihss] 
= 17). Two of the five adults in this cohort had no significant medical history
or known risk factors for stroke. Four of the five presented to the hospital
eight or more hours after initial onset of stroke symptoms. A Mount Sinai
physician who had worked with these patients stated that two reportedly delayed
calling an ambulance
[https://www.cnn.com/2020/04/22/health/strokes-coronavirus-young-adults/index.html]
.



How can COVID-19 cause a stroke?
It is thought that COVID-19 promotes vascular inflammation and increased blood
coagulability, leading to blood clot formation. If a clot blocks a major artery,
it can obstruct blood flow and cause tissue death in the form of a stroke or
heart attack. Recent studies from the Netherlands
[https://www.thrombosisresearch.com/article/S0049-3848(20)30120-1/fulltext] and 
China [https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3550025] have also
noted an increased incidence of stroke and blood clotting-related complications
among adult COVID-19 patients.

Worries about burdening the healthcare system or thoughts that "it can't happen
to me" might have caused some of the Mount Sinai patients to defer medical
attention. Their stories serve as a cautionary tale for other young adults
navigating the pandemic: be prepared to recognize and respond to stroke symtoms
during this time of elevated risk.



BE FAST to recognize stroke symptoms
Every second counts in recognizing a stroke, as a vessel-blocking clot can cause
millions of brain cells to die per minute. The BE FAST acronym is any easy way
to remember stroke symptoms and the need to take action. Memorize the
information below, and know that one does not have to be experiencing all
symptoms to be having a stroke.

Balance loss including unsteadiness, tripping, or falling
Eyesight changes like blurred vision, double vision, or vision loss
Facial drooping or inability to maintain a symmetrical smile
Arm weakness presenting as clumsiness or partial to total inability to move
Slurred speech including difficulty forming words or speaking altogether
Time to call 911!



Monitor COVID-19 symptoms and know the emergency warning signs
The CDC states that most cases of COVID-19 are mild
[https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html] and
recommends monitoring symptoms of the condition. Individuals who are
experiencing severe or concerning symptoms or suspect exposure to COVID-19 are
advised to contact their healthcare provider immediately for further direction.

COVID-19 symptoms:
 * Cough
 * Shortness of breath
 * Fever
 * Chills
 * Repeated shaking with chills
 * Muscle pain
 * Headache
 * Sore throat
 * New loss of taste or smell

The CDC also describes emergency warning signs of severe illness. If you are
experiencing any of the symptoms below, call 911 immediately.

Seek medical attention for emergency warning signs:
 * Trouble breathing
 * Persistent chest pain or pressure
 * New-onset confusion or difficulty to wake
 * Blue-tinged lips or face



Always take an ambulance during an emergency
If you experience stroke symptoms or COVID-19 emergency warning signs, opt for
ambulance transport to the hospital instead of self-transport. Delay in
hospitalization during a medical emergency is associated with increased
mortality across health conditions
[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2464671/].

Research examining acute stroke patients' motives for self-transport to the
hospital [https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/str.50.suppl_1.WMP93] sheds
light on why some defer calling 911. Subjects cited the desire to go to a
particular hospital, not realizing the situation was an emergency, and belief
that car transport would be faster among their reasons to drive themselves or
get a ride.

Ambulance transport is the fastest and safest route to the hospital. Do not
gamble with your prognosis or the lives of others on the road by taking a car.
Although this advice is important for all age groups, it is increasingly
relevant for adults under age 50. Knowing the symptoms and correct response to
COVID-19-related emergencies can make the difference between life and death.

Further Reading:
How to Spot and Prevent Blood Clots
[https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2017/01/how-spot-prevent-deep-vein-thrombosis]
What to Do If You Have COVID-19 and When to Call 911
[https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html]

COVID-19

COVID-19 and Stroke in Younger Adults: Know the Signs to Save a Life

The ability to do these simple tasks reduces dependency on others, improves potential for employment and enhances quality of life. 

How to regain hand grasp and function

Spinal cord injury has been recorded in the hieroglyphs of Egypt. You can
imagine the trauma that might have been sustained by workers of the great
pyramids. This would be one of the first recorded industrial accidents.
Pictorial evidence of urinary catheterization has been recorded by these early
historians. It seems that spinal cord injury and other paralysis have been with
us since the dawn of mankind.

Life after a spinal cord injury can sometimes feel a little hopeless because you
have to rely on someone else for everything, even simple everyday tasks like
feeding yourself or brushing your teeth. Although modern medicine has not yet
found a way to cure paralysis, modern technology is starting to bridge the gap.

Table of contents

 * How to adapt on your daily life
 * Functional devices assist with everyday tasks
 * Neomano: Regain hand function and independence

 How to adapt on your daily life
More than one third of spinal cord injury survivors sustain an injury that
causes damage to the spinal cord in the cervical region and results in
tetraplegia. Most people with tetraplegia remain wheelchair-dependent and
reliant on others for physical care. Limited hand and upper limb function is
often more disabling and of greater importance to them than their inability to
walk. Even modest improvements in hand function can have life-changing
implications. For example, a small amount of finger movement enables a person
with tetraplegia to use a keyboard, press a switch, scratch the face and turn
the page of a book. The ability to do these simple tasks reduces dependency on
others, improves potential for employment and enhances quality of life.
Expanding these activities could be the aim of rehabilitation.



 Functional Devices Assist with Everyday Tasks
Over the years there have been many functional splints and devices created to
assist people with everyday tasks. One of the most commonly used functional
devices is called a universal cuff. A universal cuff can be used in a variety of
ways such as to hold a feeding utensil, tooth brush, or makeup brush, etc.
Depending on the level of the spinal cord injury, one may require a wrist
support splint along with the universal cuff or a mobile arm support which will
provide a gravity eliminated position for the upper extremity, allowing active
movement while utilizing less muscle strength.

Another common practice is utilizing foam to build up objects such as feeding
utensils, tooth brush, or writing utensils. If someone needs a little more
support for writing they may be recommended a functional writing splint such as
a figure eight splint or a Wanchik Writer splint.

There have been many other devices and custom splints created in order to
perform fun activities such as gardening, fishing and painting.


NeoMano: Regain Hand Function and Independence
Soft robotics is an emerging discipline that combines the classical principles
of robotics with soft materials and could provide a new class of active
assistive devices.  Neofect has created a soft robotic assistive device called 
NeoMano [http://neomano.neofect.com/] that helps with hand motions in order to
give people back their hand function and independence while only requiring one
device. NeoMano is a wearable robotic glove [http://neomano.neofect.com/] that
assists with the grasp and release of objects. The glove is a partial-glove
design that enables the thumb, pointer and middle finger to perform grasp and
release motions.

 * Shop now - Neofect Shop
   [https://shop.neofect.com?utm_source=Blog_Post&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=Post-how-to-regain-hand-function&utm_term=20211014&utm_content=Neofect-shop]

Actuated by the motor and pulley, the wireless remote control enables the grip
and release of the index & middle finger. When activated, the Grip button flexes
the fingers to provide a gripping gesture. The Release button loosens the wires,
allowing the hand to return to its original neutral position. The wire is highly
elastic, which helps maintain wire integrity despite repetitive winding and
loosening.

NeoMano
[https://shop.neofect.com/products/neomano?variant=32502766927953?utm_source=Blog_Post&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=Post-how-to-regain-hand-function&utm_term=20211014&utm_content=Neomano] 
can assist people with everyday tasks such as feeding, writing, exercising, and
daily grooming tasks. People have even rediscovered old hobbies with the use of
NeoMano, like golfing and photography! 



To find out more about the Neofect Hand Orthosis please visit Neofect Shop
[https://shop.neofect.com?utm_source=Blog_Post&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=Post-how-to-regain-hand-function&utm_term=20211014&utm_content=Neofect-shop] 
or email us at contactus@neofect.com.

NeoMano

Knowing what to look for can mean the difference between life and death, or the difference between saving and losing vital brain cells that help you function.

Early warning signs of stroke that you need to know

Stroke is the 5th leading cause of death [https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/index.htm] 
in the US, and the leading cause of long-term disability in the United States.
However, most of the population do not know the warning signs of a stroke.

Both men and women can suffer from a stroke, but warning signs may differ by
gender. Strokes
[https://www.neofect.com/us/blog/can-stress-cause-a-stroke-the-answer-may-shock-you] 
have historically been shown to be more fatal for women although more men tend
to experience them at a younger age.



Why do I need to know the early warning signs of stroke?
Have you ever wondered what it may look or feel like when a person is having a
stroke? A stroke can happen to anyone at any time; it will not stop to think
about whether you are in the middle of working, grocery shopping, or driving.
Knowing what to look for can mean the difference between life and death, or the
difference between saving and losing vital brain cells that help you function.
That is why it is so important to recognize the signs and act quickly.

It is very important to receive medical attention as soon as you exhibit any of
these warning signs as each second is crucial for survival. A stroke is a severe
medical emergency and if a person does not receive medical attention right away
they are at greater risk for permanent brain damage or death.

If a stroke is treated quickly, doctors are able to administer Tissue
Plasminogen Activator (tPA)
[https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejm199512143332401], a medication that
helps dissolve blood clots. tPA can help decrease the amount of damage done
after sustaining a stroke, but can only be administered within 3 hours of
showing warning signs. Therefore it is very important to get help as quickly as
you can in order to allow for the most successful recovery!

The more familiar you are with the warning signs, the sooner you can get help
and the sooner you get help, the higher the chances are of survival.


Early warning signs of stroke
One of the easiest ways to remember the signs and symptoms of a stroke is to
think: BE FAST.

PRINT OUT THE PICTURE BELOW AND KEEP IT IN A VISIBLE SPACE

B - Balance
E - Eyes

F - Face
A - Arm
S - Speech
T - Time


Now let’s break these down one by one to help each one stand out in your mind.

 1. Balance Loss
    This refers to new unsteadiness or difficulty staying upright and in control
    of your body’s position. Some people may experience dizziness that makes
    them feel “weird” like they can’t quite stand up or sit up correctly. Some
    feel as though they can’t quite get solid footing, or that their bodies
    aren’t reacting quickly enough with a change in position or movement.
    Sometimes muscles just can’t quite coordinate or work right while standing,
    sitting, or walking.
    
    This symptom may feel like someone is sweeping the rug out from beneath you,
    or that you are stepping off of a boat and can’t find equilibrium quickly
    enough. Often, people feel the need to grasp at other objects, lean against
    something, or sit down to help with the feeling of falling. It is easy to
    pass these strange feelings off with thoughts like, “I’m just tired from
    things happening in my life, so this must be my body’s response,” or “maybe
    I didn’t drink enough water or eat enough breakfast.” DON’T ignore your body
    when it doesn’t feel right! A change in balance could mean a stroke - call
    9-1-1.
    
    
 2. Eyesight Changes
    If you suddenly have changes in your vision, this may be a sign to take
    action by getting yourself checked out right away. This symptom is not
    referring to the gradual changes that take place as we age, rather sudden
    changes that have no obvious explanation. A change in vision or a change in
    one or both eyes can mean different things for each person. You may
    experience sudden blurriness, double vision, difficulty reading, or
    confusion with written words. This symptom may be more of a
    dizziness-related feeling, with the world spinning around you. When in
    doubt, check it out!
    
    
 3. Face Drooping
    Sometimes when a person is experiencing the start of a stroke, his or her
    face may become asymmetrical or uneven. Often, one side of the face will
    become numb, tingly, or “droopy.” A quick and effective way to check for
    this is to try to smile a big smile while looking in the mirror (or if you
    suspect someone else is experiencing a stroke, ask that person to smile
    while you observe). If the smile is noticeably uneven from one side to the
    other, get help. Another quick check is to try to shut both eyes as tightly
    as you can and have someone check to see if one eye is not closing as firmly
    as the other. Remember, some faces are a bit asymmetrical to start with -
    this symptom refers to something that is brand new for that person.
    
    
 4. Arm Weakness
    Sudden weakness, numbness, tingling, or even paralysis of a body part is one
    sign that a stroke may be happening. This is often most noticeable on one
    side of the body (for example, the right arm and leg). A quick check for
    this is raising both arms at the same time; if one arm drops down or can’t
    be moved to the same height as the other, get checked out quickly. Remember
    that each person experiences a stroke differently: while one person may have
    weakness or a “strange” feeling in her left arm and leg, another may have
    more obvious paralysis, and only in his right arm. If something is different
    or doesn’t feel right, get it checked by a doctor right away.
    
    
 5. Speech Difficulty
    When a person suddenly has trouble talking or understanding a conversation,
    it can indicate the beginning of a stroke. This symptom can also vary from
    person to person and may look or sound like confusion, slurred speech, using
    incorrect words in a sentence, being hard to understand while having a
    conversation, or not being able to speak at all. A quick check for this is
    to ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. If he or she can’t repeat 5-6
    words clearly, correctly, or in the right order, get help.
    
    
 6. Time to Call 911!
    The most important part about recognizing the signs and symptoms of a stroke
    is knowing that “time is the brain.” The faster a person receives medical
    help, the faster he or she can be evaluated and treated. Even if the signs
    or symptoms that were noticed seem to be going away, call 9-1-1 and get help
    right away. Once a stroke starts, a part of the brain is being starved of
    oxygen and brain cells are starting to die. The longer this lasts, the
    longer that part of the brain is being injured, and the greater the effects
    to the rest of the body as a result.





Recurrence of stroke and prevention
If you think you are having a stroke, or that someone near you is having a
stroke, first call 9-1-1 immediately. Tell the operator that you are thinking
stroke, and let the emergency personnel handle the rest. Do not attempt to drive
yourself to the hospital, because there’s no way to tell what other symptoms you
may experience on the way or how safe you will be. If you are helping someone
else who may be having a stroke, make sure the person is safe, (lying down on
the floor to prevent falling!) that you are nearby watching for new symptoms,
and that the paramedics can get to you easily. Strokes are scary, but knowing
when one may be happening and what to do about it is powerful and important for
saving a life.


Having a stroke puts you at further risk for future strokes. It's important to
be aware of the early warning signs and to take active steps to prevent future
strokes.


STROKE PREVENTION STRATEGIES

 1. STOP SMOKING
 2. TAKE YOUR MEDICATION AS DIRECTED BY YOUR PHYSICIAN
 3. STAY ACTIVE!
 4. EAT FOODS WITH LOW CHOLESTEROL, TRANS, AND SATURATED FATS
 5. DRINK ALCOHOL IN MODERATION

Check out more information about how to prevent stroke on preventing another
stroke. [https://www.neofect.com/us/blog/how-can-i-prevent-having-another-stoke]



 * Further Reading: 5 symptoms of a left side stroke of the brain
   [https://www.neofect.com/us/blog/5-symptoms-left-side-stroke-brain]


--

If you have had a stroke and are looking for an effective solution for your
rehabilitation needs, please look into Neofect's line of Smart Rehabilitation
Solutions [https://www.neofect.com/us].

To learn more, please call (888) 623-8984 or email contactus@neofect.com.

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not
intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or
treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health
providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you
think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
Reliance on any information provided by the NEOFECT website is solely at your
own risk.

References

 * Duke Health
   [https://us.blog.neofect.com/warning-signs-of-stroke-what-to-notice/dukehealth.org]
 * American Stroke Association
   [https://us.blog.neofect.com/warning-signs-of-stroke-what-to-notice/stroke.org]
 * Mayo Clinic
   [https://us.blog.neofect.com/warning-signs-of-stroke-what-to-notice/mayoclinic.org]
 * Benjamin, E. J. et al. (2019) Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2019
   Update: A Report From the American Heart Association
   [https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000659]. Circulation
 * Focht, K. L., Gogue, A. M., White, B. M., & Ellis, C. (2014). Gender
   differences in stroke recognition among stroke survivors
   [https://alliedhealth.ceconnection.com/files/GenderDifferencesinStrokeRecognitionAmongStrokeSurvivors-1412955098269.pdf]
   . The Journal of Neuroscience Nursing : Journal of the American Association
   of Neuroscience Nurses, 46(1), 18-22; quiz 22, E1-2. doi:
   http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/JNN.0000000000000026
 * Think FAST to recall the warning signs of a stroke. (2014, 04). Harvard
   Health Publications.Harvard Heart Letter, Retrieved from 
   https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/think-fast-to-recall-the-warning-signs-of-a-stroke
 * https://www.stroke.org/we-can-help/survivors/stroke-recovery/first-steps-to-recovery/preventing-another-stroke/
 * https://www.stroke.org/understand-stroke/impact-of-stroke/women-and-stroke/
 * https://www.stroke.org/we-can-help/survivors/stroke-recovery/first-steps-to-recovery/preventing-another-stroke/
 * https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stroke/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350119

early warning signs of stroke

Not only do many brain injury survivors struggle with physical changes, but they also suffer emotional changes. Here is the best mind health constellation to care your mental health.

The best mental health care after a brain injury - Neofect’s 5 Stars

 What changes happen to brain injury survivors?


How has your life changed after a brain injury? You probably had to make changes
and accommodate yourself to a multitude of once familiar daily tasks like
dressing, washing, cooking, cleaning, shopping groceries, other household
chores, hobbies, work, and/or community reintegration. 


Not only do many brain injury survivors struggle with physical changes, they
also suffer emotional changes. Brain injury survivors are familiar with the
information about physical changes and how to rehabilitate, but some of them are
not aware of their emotional changes. I’ll explain to you some of the major
changes after a brain injury and let you know the best mind health
constellation.


Here are some changes brain injury patients suffer:


 1.  Movement restrictions
    Hemiplegia (complete paralysis of one side of body) and hemiparesis
    (weakness of one side of body) are very common, which result in functional
    and physical deficits. 
    
    Also, part(s) of your body may become weaker and gradually stiffen due to
    the lack of use. This is more prevalent in your hands more than your legs.
    Upper extremity recovery usually takes longer than lower extremity. 
    
    Exercising the weak and/or stiff parts of your body can help improve your
    function and prevent contractures.
    
    
 2. Swallowing problems (dysphagia)
    Are you having difficulties swallowing food? The technical term for this is
    “dysphagia”. It can be improved with proper treatment and/or change in diet
    (make sure to consult with your MD and speech language pathologist (SLP))!
    
    Some of complications occur when you have trouble swallowing food or liquid.
    Sometimes the food passes through the airway, instead of esophagus, and
    blocks the airway, causing you to cough or choke.
    
    Dysphagia can also lead to serious conditions such as pneumonia,
    dehydration, or malnutrition.
    
    
 3. Cognitive impairment
    Brain injury survivors’ cognitive skills, such as alertness, awareness,
    perception, memory, attention span, etc, may be affected. 
    
    Though it is impossible to predict the outcomes, this can be improved over
    time, hard work, and therapy. 
    
    Try not to feel too anxious about it—Let’s beat this together!
    
    
 4. Communication problems (aphasia)
    Do you have trouble formulating speech or articulating words?
    
    Aphasia occurs when the brain injury affects the part of the brain that is
    responsible for comprehending and expressing the language.
    
    Depending on the severity, the loss of speech and language abilities may be
    temporary or long-term. Consult with your SLP, as speech therapy could help
    you with language communication skills!
    
    
 5. Emotional changes
    This is one of the very common symptoms among brain injury survivors.
    
    You may experience emotional changes for 2 reasons:
    1) You may experience emotional changes as you try to cope with the losses
    or aftereffects from the brain injury itself; and/or, 2)the brain injury may
    have damaged the part of your brain that regulates hormones and emotions.
    
    Either way, please don’t blame yourself for the mood swings and depression.
    It is not your fault, and we are here to help you cope with this!
    
    
 6. Other signs
    Visual impairment (trouble with visual processing, neglect or unawareness of
    one side of the visual field, spatial awareness, difficulty identifying
    objects, etc.) and numbness in the limbs may occur.
    

To recap, these changes arise from damage to particular areas of the brain.


Although damaged brain tissue can’t be regenerated, your brain’s ability to
reconnect and recover the functions—neuroplasticity—is possible!




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table of contents

1. What changes happen to brain injury survivors?
2. Why do you need mental care after a brain injury?
3. The best mental health care after a brain injury
4. Conclusion(wrap-up)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Why do you need mental care after a brain injury?
Many go through sudden and uncontrollable mood shifts: like bursting into tears
or laughing involuntarily.


Also, they are concerned if they’ll actually recover because daily progress
isn’t visible to the eye. Oftentimes, needless worries and doubts cloud your
judgment. Feelings of grief may take over or some actually give up on rehab
altogether.


Some worry that others will judge them.

Will they notice my illness? Will I cause discomfort? Will some avoid me for my
disabilities?

These repeated thought patterns will lower their self-esteem and minimize their
social interactions.



There will be temporary downturns. It may feel like you’re getting worse no
matter how hard you try.





--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 The best mental health care after a brain injury
"Will this work?”

“I’m not getting better.”

“I want to give up.”


Many brain injury survivors express concerns and frustrations. In fact, the
emotional rollercoaster is a natural part of recovery.


But, you are not alone. We are here to encourage you and help you cope with the
negative thoughts and emotions as you go through brain injury rehabilitation.


Rehabit’s 5 Stars
★Star 1. Embrace the changes.
★Star 2. Slowly but surely, I’m getting better.
★Star 3. Connect with others.
★Star 4. Setbacks only make me stronger.
★Star 5. I can be happy even after a brain injury.



We want you to remember these five elements for emotional wellness as you cope
with brain injury recovery. There will be times where you may feel vulnerable
but let these stars guide you in your day-to-day life as you continue with
rehabilitation.




 ★Star 1. Embrace the changes



Let's begin with Star 1—“Embrace the changes.”


Here’s a comment from “Neofect Support Group”, our Facebook community:



“I had my brain injury a year ago. Lately, I’ve experienced some emotional
changes. I bursted out crying while watching a Disney movie last night. I’m
suddenly feeling sensitive these days. I’ve never been this way before. But
recently, I discovered it’s a common post-injury symptom. Have any of you gone
through it?”


Did you ever feel this way? Unable to hold your tears during a movie, or
laughing unconsciously at something trivial?



The technical term for this condition is called PBA(Pseudobulbar Affect). 


It’s an uncontrollable display of emotions regardless of one’s actual feelings.
Physical damage to the frontal lobe that controls emotional expression causes
these strange outbursts. 


Many suffer from this emotional rollercoaster. These unrestrained and
unintentional expressions of emotions may end up dragging you down to
self-sabotage and depression.

Stop right there.


Remind yourself that this is the normal part of the rehab. It’s a natural
physiological response to the damaged brain following a brain injury.


You are surrounded by your family and friends who care about you. There are also
other brain injury survivors who can relate to you. We, Rehabit, are also here
for you. We will help you develop healthy coping skills.





 ★Star 2. Slowly but surely, I’m getting better
“Am I getting better?”


Many brain injury survivors question their recovery. They look at their stiff
hands and worry if they’ll ever improve. They doubt, then lose motivation, which
may affect their recovery negatively.


Don’t allow these negative thoughts to misguide you. Always remind yourself that
you are better than yesterday. Your body functions are recovering every day.
Your mental health is also improving every day. These are hard facts.


What brain injury survivors need is faith, first and foremost. And let
experienced therapists provide you with quality rehab solutions and trust the
process.


Remember you’re always moving forward even if it’s not visible to the naked eye.




According to therapists, progress may not be visible each and every day even if
we are always getting better everyday in rehab, we're not aware of it because
it’s not tangible.


However, all your efforts and struggles will eventually pay off!


You are getting better.


Walk with us in the Rehabit journey, and you will see your progress in the end!






 ★Star 3. Connect with others


Gilovich et al. (2000) conducted a study on “The spotlight effect in social
judgment”, and found that people tend to overestimate how their actions and
appearance are noted by others. 


In this study, participants had to wear T-shirts they didn’t like while
interacting with others. When the participants were asked roughly how many
people did they think had seen their T-shirts, their answers exceeded the actual
number of people that have noticed the T-shirts that the participants were
wearing.


This indicates that people’s primary focus is on themselves and are rather too
self-conscious to pay much attention to others. 


Many brain injury survivors are self-conscious, and worry about what others
would think about them. They assume that others are uncomfortable around them
because of their physical disabilities, postures and/or awkwardness caused by
injury.


This causes them to be withdrawn and isolated. They struggle, or even avoid
socializing with others in the communities. 


Instead of being worried about what others may think of you and convincing
yourself that you’d rather be alone, step out of your comfort zone and interact
with others! 


Having meaningful conversation and spending quality time with others can be very
helpful. It will also give you a sense of belonging and security when you regard
yourself as an important member of your social groups, such as family, circle of
friends, etc. 


Moreover, others need your support just like you need theirs. Socializing plays
a major role in rehab because it provides social support and motivation in your
journey to recovery.


Have you ever thought — “I’ll socialize more after I succeed in rehab.”


This may not be the healthiest approach. Your social life before rehab should be
maintained even after your injury. 


Start practicing your social skills today. Stick with the habit of talking to
your family and friends, and ask them how they are doing. You can also meet up
with them and spend quality time together. You can even take a step further and
chat with new people in the online or offline support groups. They’ll be glad to
connect with you.






 ★Star 4. Setbacks only make me stronger
Many brain injury survivors experience rehab slumps. Even if they get enough
training done, the body doesn’t feel right.


You feel like you hit a brick wall on the path to recovery. In fact, rehab may
even seem like running on a treadmill...What should you do?



Bear in mind that slumps won’t make you collapse. They’re stepping stones for
you to forge ahead.


They're only temporary yet necessary—a sign that you’re on the right track.



Coping with these setbacks and challenges may be difficult at first, but will
get easier with time. Eventually, you will get stronger and more resilient,
which is considered an important factor in your progress.


When a slump comes your way, welcome it as if it’s your day off, knowing it’ll
ultimately lead to healing. The right amount of rest is a part of rehab, too.
Make rehab a happy journey where you can unwind and relax along the way.


Remember—After every setback, there’s a comeback!





 ★Star 5. I can be happy even after a brain injury
Life is filled with the unforeseen circumstances and traumas. Brain injury
brings a lot of changes, losses, and challenges in your mind and body. It is
normal to feel frustrated and overwhelmed during brain injury recovery.


Happiness is not defined by your illness and medical conditions. Happiness is
actually based on your perception. However, it is not easy to stay positive all
the time.



Regardless of the life circumstances, there are always things to be grateful for
everyday. For instance — clean water, food, social support, technology that
allows you to be on this app, enough strength and energy to complete your rehab
routines, etc...


Actively look for the happy moments and simple pleasures in your life.


Engage in activities that you love, recite positive affirmations, and work on
changing your lifestyle. Write down the small and big goals in your life, and
think about what you can do today to get a step closer to achieving them.


Though it seems unimaginable at the moment, it is possible to get through this,
and live a life full of contentment and purpose even after a brain injury.


You need time to heal physically and emotionally, and we hope that each day gets
easier for you.





--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Conclusion (Wrap-up)
Which star did you think was most memorable? 



Regardless of your frustrations, your efforts will eventually pay off. Your
valuable time and efforts in your current path will come to fruition—just like
nurturing a plant, watering it and giving it time to grow into a sturdy tree
with strong, deep roots.


Your progress has transpired from the beginning and it's happening at this
moment. Be with Rehabit, and it's still to come. And in due time, it will bear
fruit.


If you’re interested in Rehabit, please visit here
[https://www.neofect.com/us/rehabit]. ?

Install Rehabit now
[https://www.neofect.com/app-download?app=rehabit&pid=organic_MKT&c=Blog&af_adset=Post_best-mental-care] 
and reclaim your health and happiness!