PRINCIPLES OF REHAB NEURO

Question 1

What does correct positioning post stroke reduce the risk of?

Answer 1

Aspiration
Contracture
Pressure Areas
Shoulder Pain
Swelling of the Extremities

Question 2

What are the aims of positioning post stroke?

Answer 2

Normalise tone
Maintain skeletal alignment
Provide stable base of support
Increase stimulation of affected side
Increase spatial awareness
Promote comfort
Facilitate normal movement patterns
Manage pressure
Decrease fatigue
Enhance autonomic nervous system function (cardiac, digestove and respiratory function)
Facilitate maximum function

Question 3

What are some seated exercises for post stroke rehab?

Answer 3

Seated chest press
Shift weight side to side
Reaching
Seated leg lift
Single leg knee extensions
Reach with clasped hands

Question 4

Why do patients struggle to stand after stroke?

Answer 4

Spascitiy
Fear of falling

Question 5

What are some guidelines to follow for post stroke rehab?

Answer 5

Early mobilisation
Aerobic exercise
Strength training exercise to reverse muscle atrophy(2-3 times per week, 8-10 exercises, 10-15 repitions)
Stretching and ROM exercises
Balance exercises and core exercises
Gait training exercises

Question 6

Why might your balance be affected after a stroke?

Answer 6

Weakness in one side of your body (eg foot drop)
Loss of sensation
Concentration problems
Vision problems
Neglect (brain not processing sensory information from one side)
Ataxia (difficulty with controlling smooth movements)
Perceptual problems
Vertigo (if stroke occurs in your cerebellum or brainstem)
Side effects of medication

Question 7

What is some treatment for spasticity?

Answer 7

Putting a brace on the affected limb or joint
Frequent movement
Gentle stretching and range of motion exercises
Oral medication, injections and sometimes surgery