Rehabilitation after a stroke
After a stroke, you may have a variety of disabilities. Although some disabilities may be permanent, participation in a stroke rehabilitation (rehab) program can help you recover as much of your abilities as possible. The types of disabilities you have and your potential for recovery depend on:
- Which side of the brain was affected (whether it's your dominant side).
- Which region of the brain was damaged by the stroke.
- How much of the brain was damaged.
- Your general health before the stroke.
Starting rehabilitation as soon as possible after a stroke—even while you are in the hospital—is vital for your long-term recovery.
Your rehab may take place in different settings. A successful recovery depends on your ability and willingness to participate as well as good support from your family and health professionals.
- Hospital and rehabilitation center programs. Stroke rehabilitation may be provided by a special rehab center or by a rehab unit in a hospital. Therapy will be provided by a team of therapists, including rehabilitation doctors and nurses and an occupational therapist, speech therapist, and physical therapist. You may remain hospitalized or participate as an outpatient.
- Nursing home programs. Some nursing homes provide stroke rehabilitation programs.
- Outpatient programs. Outpatient rehabilitation programs allow you to live at home and receive a full range of services at a hospital outpatient department, rehab center, or day hospital program.
- Home health programs. Home health programs allow you to live at home and receive rehabilitation services from visiting health professionals, such as a physical therapist, occupational therapist, or a speech therapist. An important advantage of a home program is that you can learn skills for daily living where you will use them.
For more information, see the topic Stroke Rehabilitation.
| Author: | Robin Parks, MS | Last Updated: March 6, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Richard D. Zorowitz, MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation | |
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