Stroke Rehabilitation : Traditional and Modern Approaches

The recovery from stroke is often slow and incomplete, leading to partial or complete loss of locomotion, activities of daily living (ADL), cognition and communication skills. Aim of stroke rehabilitation is to reduce the disabilities and enable the patient to return to community, which is achieved by joint efforts of physicians, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, nurses, social workers and psychologists. Rehabilitation of a stroke patient begins as soon as any impairment is perceived and comprises traditional exercise programmes and neuropsychological approaches with the primary aim of restoring mobility of patient. It also deals with issues related to dysphagia, bowel and bladder care, shoulder dislocation, pressure sores, and prevention of deep venous thrombosis. A good rehabilitation programme helps in promoting natural recovery, preventing complications due to disabilities and adapting to disabilities.