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The Impact of Exercise on Stroke Prevention and Recovery
The Impact of Exercise on Stroke Prevention and RecoveryA stroke occurs when parts of the brain don’t get enough blood, either because of a blood clot that blocks ablood vessel, or a blood vessel that bursts or leaks into the brain.Strokes can range from mild to very serious and recovering from a stroke can take a long time and be veryhard work.“So somebody could be able to get in and out of bed fine and sit on the edge of the bed and maybeeven stand, but their lower extremity strength might not allow them to ambulate. Some other patientmay have equal strength in their lower extremities, but they're not able to balance because of where thestroke was in the brain.”But even for patients who have serious strokes, exercise is an important part of recovery, and it can helpreduce your risk of a future stroke.One of the main benefits of exercise after a stroke is helping lower your risk of experiencing another stroke.Exercise can help lower your blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for stroke.Getting enough exercise can also help lower cholesterol, make it easier to lose weight, control your bloodsugar, and make you feel motivated to take good care of yourself.All of these reduce your stroke risk.Exercise has other benefits as well for stroke patients.It makes you stronger, including parts of your body that were affected by the stroke like your arms and legs.Improves your balance, which makes it less likely you’ll fall and get injured.Improves your flexibility, which goes hand in hand with better balance to make your day-to-day life easier andless dangerous.Together with your stroke recovery team, decide on the type of exercise that is best for you based on what youenjoy and your level of injury.From walking to swimming to lifting weights or using exercise bands.Even seated exercises can be helpful.However, you and your stroke recovery team plan for you to start exercising again, the American StrokeAssociation has some tips that can help:First, make sure you’re consulting with your stroke recovery team or health care provider.Next, be sure that you’re exercising regularly. Exercise works best if you stick to a regular schedule.This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.PRG05127B EN TheImpactOfExerciseOnStrokePreventionAndRecovery.pdf© The Wellness NetworkPage 1 of 2The Impact of Exercise on Stroke Prevention and RecoveryStart by following the prescribed regimen from your stroke recovery team to build up your strength andstamina.Aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a week, preferably spread throughout the week.Talk with your stroke recovery team for recommendations on what kind and how much physical activity youshould attempt. Try to stay as active as you can. The longer you stay in bed, the harder your recovery may be.“In order to regain abilities, you have to do your exercises. You have to stick with the program.”Exercise is good for you. Ask your stroke recovery team about starting to exercise as a key part of yourrecovery from stroke and to help you improve your life as well as lessen your risk of another stroke.This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.PRG05127B EN TheImpactOfExerciseOnStrokePreventionAndRecovery.pdf© The Wellness NetworkPage 2 of 2
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Stroke survivors, caregivers, and neurologists explain physical and occupational therapy and the important roles both play in recovery from stroke.
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