After a stroke, the ultimate goal of rehabilitation is to help patients achieve the highest level of functioning possible. That could mean learning to walk again, returning to work or simply cooking a meal.

“Each person’s stroke recovery is unique,” says Madhu Jain, MD, medical director of the Brain Injury Unit at St. Lawrence. “Some people improve immediately, while others progress slower. It can take 3 to 12 months to see improvements after a stroke.”

A Team Approach
The comprehensive team approach to rehabilitation provides all the services a patient needs after a stroke. Physicians work closely with therapists, nurses, speech pathologists, psychologists and social workers to provide the latest technology to enhance the patient’s physical, cognitive and emotional recovery and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Advanced Technology
New stroke treatments include Botox® injections to relieve the muscle stiffness or spasms that often afflict patients. The rehab team also uses an advanced therapy system (NESS H200® and L300™) that uses mild electrical stimulation to help individuals regain function in their arms and legs. This system makes it easier for recovering patients to reach for objects, hold a pen or walk better.

Live At Home
After a stroke, some patients are admitted to St. Lawrence on an inpatient basis. Others can live at home and come to St. Lawrence for outpatient therapy several times a week.

“Most people benefit from therapy after a stroke,” says Dr. Jain. “Sometimes, months after suffering a stroke, individuals who did not have rehabilitation may notice difficulty with balance, endurance or day-to-day activities. Rehabilitation therapy may get them back to their previous level of function.”

“What’s most important for stroke recovery is that patients follow up with their doctor, maintain their blood pressure and get a comprehensive rehabilitation plan to maximize their independence,” adds Dr. Jain.