06/06/2025
Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide. Recent advancements in understanding its causes, symptoms, complications, diagnosis, and physiotherapy treatments have significantly improved patient outcomes.
๐ง Stroke: Causes, Signs, Complications & Diagnosis
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Strokes occur when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to tissue damage. The primary types include:
Ischemic Stroke: Caused by a blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain, often due to a clot.
Hemorrhagic Stroke: Results from a ruptured blood vessel, leading to bleeding in or around the brain.
Risk factors encompass high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle.
# & Symptoms
Recognizing stroke symptoms promptly is crucial. The BE FAST acronym aids in identification:
Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
Eyes: Sudden vision changes in one or both eyes.
Face: Facial drooping or numbness.
Arms: Arm weakness or numbness.
Speech: Slurred or incoherent speech.
Time: Immediate medical attention is vital.
๐โโ๏ธ Evidence-Based Physiotherapy Treatments (2024โ2025)
Advancements in physiotherapy have introduced innovative treatments to enhance stroke recovery:
1. Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT)
CIMT encourages use of the affected limb by restricting the unaffected one, promoting neuroplasticity and improving motor function.
2. Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)
FES applies electrical currents to stimulate muscle contractions, aiding in restoring movement and strength in paralyzed limbs.
3. Virtual Reality (VR) and Telerehabilitation
VR provides immersive environments for therapy, enhancing engagement and motivation. Telerehabilitation extends these benefits remotely, increasing accessibility.
4. Mirror Therapy
Utilizes the reflection of the unaffected limb to create a visual illusion, encouraging movement in the affected limb and improving motor function.
5. Bobath Concept (Neuro-Developmental Treatment)
Focuses on facilitating normal movement patterns and inhibiting abnormal ones through guided handling and positioning, enhancing motor control.
6. Aquatic Therapy
Employs water's buoyancy and resistance to improve balance, strength, and mobility, particularly beneficial for those with significant motor impairments.
๐ Guidelines and Resources
2024 VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guidelines: Provides 47 evidence-based recommendations for stroke rehabilitation, covering motor therapy, cognitive function, and community reintegration.
American Heart Association/American Stroke Association Guidelines: Offers detailed protocols for adult stroke rehabilitation and recovery, emphasizing individualized care plans.
