How to Improve Strength after Stroke

Recovering from a stroke can be a long and difficult process. A patient may experience loss of feeling or control over various parts of their body, making it difficult to get around and do things "normally." Physical therapy will often be a requirement for stroke patients prescribed by their physician. In addition, though, there are various exercises that can be done at home to help improve a stroke patient's strength.

Recent studies at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland have proven that stroke patients who walk, bike and do small low impact exercises regularly can help improve their strength. These exercises and motions will help increase muscle tone and function in the body, making ordinary movements and tasks much easier overall.

Things You'll Need

• Treadmill
• Stationary bicycle
• Walking shoes
• Small weights (no more than 8 lb.)

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Instructions

• 1

  Walk at a steady pace on a treadmill or outside for at least 10 minutes each day. A patient will not need to walk a certain distance or at a certain pace or speed, but they will just need to get the exercise and walking motion each day.

• 2

  Cycle on a stationary bike each day for at least 10 minutes. Again, the speed or amount of distance is not important, but just the motion will help benefit the patient.

• 3

  Lift and stretch the affected limbs each day, at least three times a day. Lift the limb (leg or arm) as if a weight was attached. This will get the patient back into the rhythm or motion of moving that limb.

• 4

  Gradually add weights to the limb being worked on for strength. Lift the small weights on the affected area for 10 repetitions, 3 to 5 cycles each day. Attach the weight to either the arm or leg that is affected most and work on building that strength. Start with the smallest weights possible, and gradually increase the weight over time. Do not increase by more than 1 lb. a week.

• 5

  Continue the weight training regimen along with walking and cycling each day. Continue this practice for at least three months, or as long as it may take to see results.