Strokes are the leading cause of adult disability in the United States, according to the National Stroke Association. Recovery for stroke survivors is different for each case, but one therapy that appears to help almost without exception is an exercise regimen to improve overall health and minimize other impacts on life after a stroke.
Treadmill
Health and mobility become better for stroke survivors when they regularly walk on a treadmill, according to researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine. Following a stroke, the patient's brain still retains the ability to re-learn movement and functionality. By doing this exercise, even years after the stroke, patients will often improve their ability to walk.
In a study led by Johns Hopkins, patients who had suffered a stroke within the past six months took part in treadmill therapy that resulted in significantly increased walking speeds, improved brain activity related to walking and overall physical fitness. The cardiovascular activity will also reduce the chances of future strokes. The treadmill therapy in the research was typically done three times a week for up to 40 minutes, depending on ability.
Water Exercise
According to the National Stroke Association, swimming may be the best exercise for stroke survivors. For those unable to walk normally on dry land, the weight reduction in water combined with the option to hang onto the edge of the pool will often allow patients to get their walking done while partially submerged in water. There is no significant impact on joints in the water and it also helps improve balance. With the support of the water around the patient, they may also be able to do stretching movement such as squats that they may find impossible on land.
Weight Training
Stroke survivors often have problems with loss of bone density and muscle mass, especially on the side the stroke has affected. Lifting small weights such as 2- to 5-lb.dumbbells regularly will improve muscle mass and help with bone loss.
Tai Chi
Martial arts classes are common in health clubs all over the country now, and success in terms of balance, muscle tone, thinking ability and body awareness has been observed in stroke victims and other "at risk" groups, according to the National Stroke Association. Tai chi has become popular in the United States as a way to get and stay fit. It uses a series of flowing, almost dance-like movement and can be done by people of all ages. It is commonly recommended for stress relief as well.
Tags: National Stroke, National Stroke Association, Stroke Association, according National, after stroke, Johns Hopkins, muscle mass