Stroke
What is a Stroke?
A stroke, medically known as a "Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)," is commonly referred to as a brain stroke. In simple terms, it occurs when the blood supply to the brain is suddenly interrupted, leading to damage or death of brain cells due to lack of oxygen and nutrients.
Once brain cells die, they cannot regenerate, resulting in the loss of bodily functions that those cells control, such as motor skills, speech, sensation, balance, or cognitive abilities. Strokes can be broadly classified into two main categories:
-
Ischemic Stroke: The most common type, caused by a blockage in the blood vessels, preventing blood flow.
-
Hemorrhagic Stroke: Caused by a rupture of blood vessels in the brain, leading to bleeding that compresses brain tissue.
Common Symptoms of Stroke:
When a stroke occurs, the symptoms are usually sudden. Rapid identification and immediate medical attention are crucial for saving brain cells. Symptoms of stroke include a drooping mouth, slurred speech, unsteady gait, numbness, or loss of vision.
High-Risk Factors for Stroke:
-
High blood pressure, high blood sugar, high blood lipids.
-
Lifestyle Habits: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, obesity, high-salt and high-fat diet.
-
Uncontrollable Factors: Advanced age, family history of stroke.
-
Patients with Heart Disease
Physiotherapy for Stroke:
-
Continuous assessment
-
Neuromuscular re-education
-
Manual therapy
-
Balance and gait training
-
Training for daily living activities
Home Care and Prevention of Recurrence:
-
Manage high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high blood lipids
-
Prevent falls
-
Proper positioning: provide good support for the affected limbs to prevent shoulder pain or dislocation.
-
Engage in regular exercise under professional guidance.
-
Adjust lifestyle: quit smoking, limit alcohol, adopt a low-salt, low-fat, high-fiber diet.
When to Seek Professional Help?
Golden Period: The first 3-6 months after the onset is considered the "golden recovery period," as nerve recovery occurs at the fastest rate. However, even during the chronic phase (after six months or a year), as long as you continue to receive training of appropriate intensity, there is still room for functional improvement.
Schedule a Consultation:
To schedule an evaluation, please call or WhatsApp for inquiries.
Phone: 6706 1944
Address: UG13, G/F, Family Plaza, 24 Ma Tau Wai Road, Hung Hom, Kowloon