Recognizing Signs of a Stroke

By: admin Published: January 11, 2012

by Katie Pierce, PT, DPT

Stroke occurs when a blood vessel breaks in the brain or a blood clot blocks an artery, interrupting blood flow to an area of the brain.  When this happens, brain cells begin to die and brain damage occurs.

Stroke is a medical emergency, in which every second counts.  The sooner a person can get medical care, the sooner life-saving medications or other measures can be administered.  Each year in the United States, about 750,000 people sustain a stroke.  Would you know how to recognize the warning signs of stroke in yourself or a loved one if it occurred?

Warning Signs: Think “S.T.R.O.K.E.”

S = Speech, or any problems with language.

T = Tingling or numbness.  Tongue is off-center when stuck out

R = Remember: any problems with memory

O = Off balance, problems with coordination

K = Killer headache

E = Eyes, or any problem with vision.

Stroke is an emergency. Call 9-1-1

After Stroke: How can Physical Therapy Help?

A Physical Therapist can help treat a variety of impairments that may have arisen from a stroke:

  • Decreased strength and endurance
  • Increased muscle tone, or spasticity
  • Balance and coordination challenges
  • Dizziness
  • Walking and mobility difficulties

Your Physical Therapist will perform a thorough evaluation and, with your input, design an appropriate plan of care to help you regain maximal function and quality of life. If you or someone you know has suffered a stroke, call the Physical Therapists at CoreBalance Therapy, LLC.: (928) 556-9935.

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