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Stroke
A
stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain temporarily stops.
This can happen when a blood vessel gets blocked or breaks.
If
the brain's blood supply is cut off long enough, a stroke can cause
permanent damage. Depending on which part of the brain is damaged,
this can affect sensation and movement.
The
physical effects of stroke range from minor movement problems to
a complete inability to move or loss of sensation in part of the
body. Most people who survive strokes can benefit from rehabilitation.
Therapies
for stroke survivors may include:
Occupational
therapy to help with activities of daily living, such as bathing,
dressing, housework, cooking and getting around the home.
Speech
therapy to help a person talk, communicate, process information
or swallow.
Physical
therapy to help a person regain mobility, improve control of
movements, increase strength and flexibility, regain balance, learn
how to use a wheelchair or other assistive device, or learn to use
the body in new ways to work around disabilities.
The
ultimate goal is for people to regain as much physical ability and
confidence as possible so they can get back to the activities they
enjoy.
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