5 Essential Neuro Physiotherapy Exercises for Stroke

MOBILIZATION AND STRETCHING

During flaccid stage mobilization in the form of gentle passive exercises and stretching of various biarticular muscles should be given as they are very prone to develop tightness. Thus muscles like tendon Achilles, hamstring,quadriceps, adductors, tensor fascia latae, biceps, wrist flexors, etc. should be stretched.Passive exercises should be given of all the movements at all the joints for at least 10 repetitions three to four times in a day.  

Some forms of splints may be given to maintain the body parts in the desired position.Commonly dorsiflexion splint or L splint may be given to prevent the foot from going into plantar flexion attitude. Similarly wrist extension splint is given to maintain the wrist and the fingers in extension position. Care should be taken to maintain the first web space.  

WEIGHT BEARING ACTIVITIES

Weight bearing exercises are necessary to promote development of tone in muscles and also to maintain the absorption of calcium into the bones. Thus the patient should be given activities like bridging ,supine on elbows ,sitting with weight bearing on the affected arm, and standing should be given as soon as possible within the limitation of the patient’s general medical status.

SUBLUXATION of the glenohumeral joint is very common complication in stroke patient, which can be prevented by proper positioning and handling. Some form of support may be given to prevent distraction of the joint when the patient assumes an erect position. Generally a shoulder sling or Bobath splint is given to prevent this complication. Skillful 

TAPING is also helpful in preventing the subluxation very effectively. It also gives a tactile feedback which helps in faster development of tone in the shoulder muscles. Weight bearing exercises for the involved upper limb has also been found to be beneficial in preventing this.

CHEST PHYSIOTHERAPY 

Chest physiotherapy in the form of inspiratory breathing exercises should be given to maintain the lung compliance and to prevent any chances of secretion accumulation. In cases of necessity nebulization or postural drainage can be given.