A stroke can be a life-changing occurrence that affects various body systems. Tasks that were previously simple may suddenly be difficult, but physical therapy can help you fight back against the consequences. Here's a closer look at some fundamental benefits a holistic treatment plan will benefit you.

Why Physical Therapy Is Important Following a Stroke

1. Helps Regain Balance

Your balance is one of the key physiological processes that might be compromised after a stroke. In addition to being inconvenient, it might put you at risk for more injuries if you fall. 

Physical therapists can assist you in improving your balance and strengthening the lower body muscle groups that keep you upright and mobile. Balance is a crucial part of a person's range of motion, so your therapist will carefully consider the repetitive exercises you need.

2. Improves Strength And Resistance

Following a stroke, strength is usually lost, especially on the affected side of the body. Weightlifting, resistance bands, repetitive standing and sitting, and other workouts can help you rebuild strength. As a result, muscle strength increases, making common tasks like climbing stairs, getting out of a chair, and carrying groceries safer and easier.

3. Helps Prevent Another Stroke

Another purpose of exercising is to prevent another stroke. Unfortunately, a stroke is often not an isolated event, and risk factors like hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity are frequently present before and after the onset of the stroke. Fortunately, all of these conditions can be treated with an exercise plan.

4. Boosts Neurological Functions

Professional athletes are known to use mental training to improve their performance, and stroke survivors can benefit from this approach as well. Before you execute your rehabilitation exercises in real life, try mentally applying them for five minutes. 

Visualizing yourself moving can help activate neuroplasticity in the same way physical exercising does. Mental practice is particularly beneficial for people who have trouble with paralysis and can't move without assistance. It allows the brain to reorganize itself without the need for movement.

If you have experienced a stroke or know someone who did, O’Fallon Pain Relief Associates can help. This highly trained and compassionate team helps patients with physical therapy, chiropractic care, and pain management for a holistic approach to wellness throughout St. Charles County, MO. Call (636) 978-3000 to schedule an appointment and visit their website for more information about their physical rehabilitation services.