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Stroke and Physical Activity |
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Monday, 03 August 2009 10:53 |
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Exercise is equally as important as medication and rehabilitation in stroke patients and for stroke risk reduction.
Evidence suggests that regular physical activity helps prevent stroke and heavy workouts aren’t necessary to get risk-reducing benefits. Moderate to high intensity workouts have less than half the stroke risk of people who engage in low levels of exercise.
You must speak with both your specialist (cardiologist/ neurologist) and your doctor before beginning an exercise program after having a stroke. They, along with rehabilitation will be able to devise a program to suit your needs taking into account your personal medical condition, level of fitness, limitations and medications.
Exercise needs are different because stroke patients won’t have full use of every part of the body to start off with and so gradually working up to a full regime depending on ability will be essential.
Physical, mental, and emotional factors will influence activity decisions as stroke patients may be more disabled by associated cardiac disease than by the stroke itself.
Assessment for depression should be taken into account by doctor or specialist when designing an exercise program as the incidence of post stroke depression ranges from 18% to 68% and is affected by ability to perform tasks, reaching goals, loss of self confidence and fitness
Research has found that the more physical activity you do the better you get. Try as much as you can during therapy time and get feedback from your physio or exercise support person.
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Stroke Prevention 