One Step Ahead Mobility

What is a stroke (or CVA)?

A stroke occurs when there's a disruption in the blood supply to the brain, leading to a lack of oxygen and nutrients. This interruption can happen due to a clot blocking blood flow (ischemic stroke) or a blood vessel bursting (hemorrhagic stroke). Immediate medical attention is crucial during a stroke to minimize damage to the brain.

Types of stroke

Ischemic Stroke: Caused by a clot obstructing a blood vessel, this type accounts for the majority of strokes.

Hemorrhagic Stroke: Occurs when a weakened blood vessel ruptures, leading to bleeding into the brain.

Symptoms and treatment

Common signs of a stroke include sudden facial drooping, arm weakness, and/or speech difficulty. If you notice these signs, it's crucial to seek immediate medical help.

Treatment options after a stroke can include clot-busting medications, surgery, and therapy to regain lost skills and functions.

Post-stroke rehabilitation plays a crucial role in aiding stroke survivors in regaining lost skills, relearning tasks, and adapting to new ways of living. It's a comprehensive process involving various therapies and support to enhance physical, cognitive, and emotional recovery.

These therapies can include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, emotional support and mental health care, aid for assistive/mobility devices, caregiver education, and long-term planning.

Post-stroke rehabilitation is a personalized and ongoing process tailored to individual needs and recovery goals. It aims to maximize independence and quality of life for stroke survivors, often involving a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals.

Always consult healthcare professionals for personalized rehabilitation plans and guidance.

Stroke (or Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA))

Physiotherapy after stroke

Physiotherapy for post-stroke consists of the following...

Mobility Improvement: Focuses on regaining movement, balance, and coordination.

Strength Training: Helps rebuild muscle strength and endurance.

Gait Training: Assists in re-learning how to walk or improving walking ability, with mobility aids if necessary.

CIMT: intensive post-stroke program

Here at One Step Ahead Mobility, we have two CIMT-qualified neurological physiotherapists. In fact, we are one of only a handful of clinics to offer this program in Canada.

Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) is a rehabilitation technique used primarily for stroke survivors or individuals with limited mobility due to conditions like cerebral palsy or traumatic brain injury.

The core principle of CIMT is to constrain the movement of the unaffected limb (usually the stronger limb) while intensively training and encouraging the use of the affected limb. This approach aims to overcome learned non-use, a phenomenon where individuals rely excessively on their less affected limb, leading to neglect or reduced use of the affected one.

To learn more about how you can benefit from this intensive program, visit our CIMT page.