Henry Hoffman
Monday, February 11th, 2019
Last modified on September 6th, 2022
Evidence-Based TreatmentLife After StrokeMotivationStroke Awareness
The stroke rehabilitation process throughout the first several months of stroke recovery can be intense, with dramatic inclines and declines in progress that can encourage and depress survivors. Weakness and paralysis are common effects of stroke and adjusting to the demands of recovery may require significant lifestyle changes.
Establishing and gaining momentum towards a stroke survivor’s goals is key to thwarting an often-frustrating phenomenon– the plateau phase. What does “plateau” mean? A plateau period is a state of little or no change following a period of activity or progress. During a plateau, it may feel as though the initial positive progress was the end of successful rehabilitation and that no further improvement is possible. But for many, a plateau period or plateau phase is quite common and even to be expected. Understanding this will help both survivors and caregivers avoid the derailment of recovery by losing hope, motivation, and persistence.
Henry Hoffman
Wednesday, February 6th, 2019
Last modified on October 17th, 2022
Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States suffers a stroke, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While some individuals may experience long-term motor deficits as a result of a stroke, it’s possible for stroke survivors to make a full recovery with immediate medical attention and an effective stroke rehabilitation program. A pontine cerebrovascular accident (also known as a pontine CVA or pontine stroke) is a type of ischemic stroke that affects the pons region of the brain stem. A pontine stroke can be particularly devastating and may lead to paralysis and the rare condition known as Locked-in Syndrome (LiS). Fortunately, it has been estimated that up to 80 percent of strokes are preventable. In this post, we will discuss the underlying anatomy of the brain stem, pontine stroke risk factors, and how to prevent a stroke naturally.
Henry Hoffman
Monday, February 4th, 2019
Last modified on August 26th, 2022
After suffering a stroke, many survivors experience not only physical impairments but also cognitive and emotional changes. In fact, about one-third of all stroke survivors will experience emotional difficulties, and many others may demonstrate personality changes or inappropriate behaviors. These shifts in mood and behavior are often difficult for both stroke survivors and their loved ones. However, effective treatment, healthy lifestyle habits, and taking the time to develop a new perspective will aid in coping with these new challenges. Every stroke recovery is unique, and each stroke survivor will have individual preferences when it comes to therapy styles and life changes. Today, community support groups are a proven pathway for many stroke survivors to discover what works for them, offering helpful insights and resources during the recovery process. Fortunately, there are many local support groups in cities across the country that can combat isolation and frustration and help patients deal with the changes — large or small — that often follow a stroke.
Henry Hoffman
Saturday, February 2nd, 2019
Last modified on August 26th, 2022
When you or a loved one suffers a stroke, the first question is often, “How can I recover as quickly as possible?” To take full advantage of the brain’s neuroplasticity, it’s important to seek out the most optimal care and rehabilitation plan. Additionally, your overall physical and mental health are directly linked with the success of your stroke therapy. Exercise improves mental wellbeing and keeps the body healthy and strong, maximizing its capacity to heal. Even with a consistent exercise regimen, however, some psychological roadblocks should be expected. Depression is common after a stroke, and must be taken just as seriously as any other symptom or illness.
That said, understanding the challenges that may arise during the stroke recovery process can help prepare you to make a successful recovery.
Henry Hoffman
Friday, January 25th, 2019
Last modified on August 26th, 2022
Dysphagia is a disorder characterized by difficulty swallowing and is extremely common among survivors of stroke and other brain conditions. Dysphagia can lead to life-threatening complications like pneumonia, as well as impede a survivor’s ability to eat and negatively impact their social life. Stroke survivors and their family members need to know the signs of dysphagia, how it is treated, and the who/what/when/where/why of getting help.
Henry Hoffman
Friday, January 25th, 2019
Last modified on August 26th, 2022
Caregiver AdviceEvidence-Based TreatmentRehabilitation NursingStroke Statistics
You probably know that things like high blood pressure and an unhealthy diet can increase your stroke risk, but what about stress? Can your stressful day at work lead to a medical emergency? Can stress cause a stroke?
While one stressful day is unlikely to increase your stroke risk, studies have shown that chronic, long-term stress could increase your chances of having a stroke. In fact, a widely cited 2012 study concluded that people who had experienced chronic stress in the previous year were four times more likely to suffer from a stroke, compared to those who were not under similar stress.
Henry Hoffman
Thursday, January 24th, 2019
Last modified on September 30th, 2022
Nearly 800,000 people suffer strokes in the United States annually, and more than 80 percent of these individuals experience a motor deficit as a result. Reduced motor function negatively impacts independence and overall quality of life for millions of survivors around the globe. Fortunately, it is possible to reduce or even eliminate many stroke-related impairments with mirror box therapy, an innovative treatment designed to encourage neural regeneration in regions of the brain that control motor function. Mirror Box Therapy empowers stroke survivors with the dexterity and motor skills necessary to regain their independence. This guide is designed to answer some of the most frequently asked questions patients have about this revolutionary treatment: What is a mirror box, and how does mirror therapy work?
Henry Hoffman
Wednesday, January 16th, 2019
Last modified on September 9th, 2021
A stroke can affect anyone.
The aftereffects of a stroke can change a person’s life by affecting their independence and ability to function. Understandably, this can be a very trying time for both a survivor and their loved ones. It is important to know the effects of stroke on fine motor function when developing exercises and activities for adults after stroke.
Henry Hoffman
Tuesday, January 15th, 2019
Last modified on August 26th, 2022
Nearly 800,000 people suffer a stroke every single year in the United States and stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States . Many stroke survivors are prescribed blood thinners and other medications to prevent another, future stroke. Common blood thinners have proven to be effective for minimizing risk of stroke associated with blood clots, but they also come with their own set of risks that are important to understand before starting treatment. Unfortunately, blood thinners can reduce the risk of clot-related stroke only to increase the risk of stroke related to bleeding and blood vessel rupture. To prevent unwanted complications from blood thinners, patients may need to make lifestyle and adjustments moving forward. Understanding the different types of stroke, their treatments, and any potential complications can empower individuals and their loved ones to prevent a second stroke in the future.
Henry Hoffman
Friday, December 14th, 2018
Last modified on September 6th, 2022
In the months directly following a stroke, there are a multitude of important decisions a stroke survivor and their family must make. Although recovery is a lifelong process, diligent at-home care and utilizing the best equipment for stroke rehabilitation will make the transition from hospital to home more streamlined and effective. Today’s developing market of stroke recovery devices offers countless options to help you supplement and continue the care provided by your hospital and rehabilitation facility, right at home. To help you identify the best devices to support in-home rehabilitation for yourself or the stroke survivor in your life, we’ll consider the five following factors: affordability, ease of use, ability to promote neuroplasticity, evidence-based results, and ongoing product support. Taking all five of these aspects into account will help you create a home environment of supportive, fact-based care for a smooth recovery.
