Stroke Rehabilitation for Physiotherapists

Physiotherapists or physical therapists treat patients with diverse diagnoses including stroke.There are several effective treatment approaches and techniques used by physiotherapists to rehabilitate stroke survivors. Physiotherapists' treatment focuses on the recovery of movement and function.

Effects

• According to the National Stroke Association, a stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked or ruptures resulting in brain-cell death. Depending on the area affected, different abilities can become impaired, such as speech, memory and movement. The larger the area of the brain affected, the more severe the disability can be.

Requirements

• Licensed physiotherapists do not need specialty certification to work with stroke survivors beyond their degree requirements. Most physical therapists will increase specialty knowledge by participating in postgraduate classwork and increasing their related work experience and training.

Techniques

• The priority of rehabilitation after stroke is to promote functional independence. A progressive program is designed for each individual and may include self-care training, use of supportive devices such as walkers or canes, strength and flexibility work and movement re-education.