Pain Relief for Joint Disorders

If you have suffered a stroke, then your physician may recommend that you enroll in a physical or occupational therapy program or both. Almost all stroke patients can benefit from a rehabilitative program, however, your progress will depend upon the extent of your disabilities. Here are some ways physical and occupational therapy or other injury rehab therapy program can help you recover from your stroke:

Physical Therapy

If your legs are weak or partially paralyzed, you may benefit from physical therapy. Your therapist will work with you on strengthening your leg muscles so that they do not develop atrophy. Your stroke may have also caused your gait to become unsteady, which can raise your risk of falling.

You may also be unable to pick up your feet when you walk as a result of your stroke injuries, which is another risk factor for accidents and injuries. Physical therapy can help you to gain more control over the muscles in your lower body, and while therapy can significantly improve your condition after a stroke, it can take at least a couple months before you see an improvement. After you have completed your physical therapy program, you can make an appointment with a chiropractor, who will work with you on maintaining your core strength and balance.

Occupational Therapy

If your stroke caused limitations in your upper body strength, then you may be a candidate for occupational therapy. Your occupational therapist will teach you exercises that will improve your ability to raise and lower your arms, and they will also work with you on combing your hair, washing your face, and brushing your teeth.

Occupational therapy can also help to improve your grasp, which may have been weakened by your stroke. Many stroke patients lose the ability to grasp eating utensils, and because of this, they need to learn how to feed themselves all over again. If you are unable to grasp an eating utensil, the occupational therapist will give you special utensils with built-up handles, which will make them easier to grip. 

If you have suffered a stroke and now have limited mobility in both your upper and lower limbs, talk to your chiropractor about how he or she can help you maintain your strength and balance after completing your physical and occupational therapy. Chiropractic care can also help you manage stroke-related pain, as well as insomnia, which can be another side effect of a stroke. Enjoying restorative sleep is essential when you are recovering from a stroke because sleeping well can help ward off high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for stroke.

For more information, contact an injury rehab clinic.