How to Improve Balance After a Stroke

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, someone in the United States suffers a stroke every 40 seconds. In 2005, roughly 1.1 million stroke survivors reported difficulty performing basic activities of daily life. Symptoms of a stroke that cause such difficulties include paralysis, difficulty talking or swallowing, memory loss, pain, and loss of balance. Many of these complications, including loss of balance, can be improved following a stroke.

Instructions

• 1

  Start to exercise. According to the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, exercising after a stroke can greatly improve balance and mobility. An exercise routine should begin as soon as possible following a stroke. The routine can be simple and become gradually more difficult. For example, you might begin by simply practicing standing up from a seated position or by sitting in a firm chair and reaching forward as far as possible.

• 2

  Start strength training. Strong muscles are critical to improving balance and mobility. Strong muscles support your joints, increase your energy, and prevent stiffness and tightness. Strength training can include the use of light free weights.

• 3

  Use a wobble board. A wobble board is a disk with a hemisphere located in the center and touching the ground. To use a wobble board, simply stand on the disc and try to keep the disk from touching the ground. Wobble boards are used by stroke survivors as well as healthy athletes to improve balance and can be purchased at most stores that sell exercise equipment.

• 4

  Know the purpose of the tasks you are doing. Improving balance after a stroke can be time consuming and frustrating. One way to reduce frustration and remain motivated is to understand why each rehabilitation task has been set. If the purpose of the task is not clear, ask your physical therapist.

• 5

  Take care of yourself. You do not want to neglect other aspects of your life while trying to improve your balance. According to The Stroke Association, it is important to eat healthy and get plenty of sleep. Moreover, it is important to realize that you may never fully regain your previous abilities, but you must focus on enjoying the best quality of life that you can.