How to Improve Balance & Proprioception After a Stroke

Recovery following a stroke can be multifaceted. Even when dealing with balance and proprioception challenges after a stroke, part of the problem may include a combination of visual acuity, movement and placement of limbs, or balance sensors located within the inner ear. In some cases, certain functions that have decreased as a result of the stroke may need to be compensated by placing more focus on other functions of balance.

Things You'll Need

• Towel
• Small objects to pick up
• Chair
• Aquatic therapy pool

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Instructions

Balance and Proprioception for Stroke Patients

• 1

  Exercise in a pool. Aquatic therapy can be a great way to help build strength and balance after a stroke. Due to the weightless qualities of being immersed in the water, this can be a good beginning step for many stroke victims. Practice with a trained professional and as long as you are cleared by a doctor, consider also utilizing aquatic aerobic classes to help build balance.

• 2

  Sit in a chair. Practice leaning toward one side or the other and lifting and lowering limbs. Even this may be challenging for some stroke victims, so consult a professional to analyze your starting point before starting treatment. Practice functional tasks such as picking up objects from the floor while sitting.

• 3

  Stand on both feet. If needed, grab hold of a countertop or rail while you shift weight between either foot. Practice functional tasks such as picking up dishes from a cupboard or picking up objects from the ground.

• 4

  Practice standing on one leg. Close your eyes, which takes away the visual function of balance and helps to build the other functions that rely on information from your limbs or sense of balance in the inner ear. Pick up small objects from the ground while only bearing weight on one leg.

• 5

  Stand on a towel that has been folded up. This decreases the stability causing you to work harder to build more advanced balancing capabilities. Repeat the same activities mentioned in Step 3 while standing on the towel. Be sure that you work balance functions while standing on either foot.

• 6

  Perform single leg squats. This is a more advanced balance activity where you pick up one leg and suspend it in the air while standing and squat down with the weight bearing leg. Practice this exercise with the suspended leg in front, beside and behind you.

• 7

  Practice Tai Chi. Once you have gained enough balance and control, and have been cleared by your doctor or physical therapist, engaging in Tai Chi is a great way to continue to improve balance, tone muscles and achieve greater mental health.