top of page

EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY FOR STROKE

Exercise is Medicine

Registered NDIS Provider

Exercise Physiology for Stroke

Stroke is one of Australia’s biggest killers and a leading cause of disability. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is suddenly interrupted. This may be as a result of a blood clot which blocks an artery in the brain (ischaemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel in the brain (haemorrhagic stroke). As a result, the brain can suffer permanent damage. The deficits you experience after a stroke will depend on which part of the brain has been affected. Paralysis and perceptual problems on one side of your body affecting the arm and leg are common symptoms after a stroke. Some of the other common symptoms depend on which area of the brain has been damaged and can include:

  • Paralysis or weakness

  • Cognitive problems

  • Perceptual problems

  • Difficulty reading or writing

  • Incontinence

  • Fatigue

  • Spasticity

  • Sensory problems

Exercise Physiology can help reduce symptoms post stroke as well as reduce the risk of further strokes. Exercise is considered one of the main therapies post stroke as it can help rewire the brain. Exercises can help maximize neuroplasticity and help with symptoms associated post stroke. Benefits of increasing post stroke physical activity include:

  • Improved walking ability, balance, coordination and flexibility

  • Improved mobility, fine motor skills, daily tasks of living

  • Lowering cholesterol and blood pressure

  • Improved mood and alertness

  • Improved strength, endurance and physical fitness.

Exercise Physiology for Stroke will always be tailored to the individual. To start with, the team at Exercise Matters Clinic will complete a thorough assessment on gross motor functional skills (ability to sit, stand, walk, balance) as well as your fine motor skills (gripping, reaching, manipulate objects). Following this assessment, our Exercise Physiologists will develop an individualized treatment plan that best facilitates an improvement in the capacity for completing activities of daily living and reducing relevant symptoms associated post stroke. 

bottom of page