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.