Stroke Rehabilitation
No matter how long it’s been since your stroke, we believe it’s never too late to rebuild your strength, overcome pain, and reclaim a vibrant, independent life. With expert, personalized care, your new chapter starts today with a comprehensive physical therapy consultation.
Patient Success Story:
Paul, Stroke Survivor
“I had a stroke over two years ago, and since then, I had been completely dependent on others for all my mobility. When I first came to Audia Physical Therapy, I couldn’t move my right leg at all. I needed a Hoyer lift just to transfer, and I had a really hard time sitting up without support.
But after just a short time in physical therapy things started to change. Now, I’m doing single-leg squats on a machine with my right leg, lifting it with some help, sitting unsupported, transferring from my wheelchair to a mat on my own, and even standing up from my wheelchair with assistance.
My wife and I had no idea it was still possible for my right leg to regain function this far out from my stroke. With the right therapy, I’m starting to realize how much recovery is still possible and it’s been incredible to see what I can do.”
6 Essential Tips for Stroke Recovery
Stroke recovery involves more than just regaining physical ability, it also includes emotional healing, mental strength, and a renewed sense of purpose. Every step, from relearning basic skills to building a positive mindset, plays a role.
Below are 6 small steps that make a big impact in optimizing rehabilitation. Since every recovery journey is unique, our goal is to offer insights that speak to a variety of needs, whether you're a survivor, caregiver, family member, or friend. We aim to empower and inspire you with helpful, hopeful guidance.
Prioritize Nutritional Wellbeing with a Stroke Recovery Diet Plan
While there's no strict "stroke diet," focusing on a balanced intake of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and low-fat dairy can significantly support recovery and overall health. Simple dietary changes (like choosing nutrient-dense foods and limiting saturated fats) can improve cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and promote healing without relying on expensive treatments.
Stroke Recovery Timeline- Don’t Get Discouraged if Progress Slows
There are no certainties regarding the timeline or progression of stroke recovery phases. Each individual who has experienced a stroke is different. The phases of stroke recovery ought to be seen as a basic framework rather than an unalterable course. Through the principles of neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to form new connections and learn) improvement is possible throughout the lifespan.
Sleep and Stroke Recovery, Sleep When Your Body Asks for It
Quality sleep is essential for brain recovery and can significantly boost stroke-related mobility gains. Aim for 7–9 hours of rest, and improve sleep quality with calming routines like light music, reading, or meditation to reduce fatigue and support optimal healing.
Allow Yourself to Grieve
It’s normal to grieve after a life-changing stroke, experiencing emotions like denial, anger, and acceptance. The healthiest path forward is to acknowledge your emotions and allow yourself to grieve, rather than suppressing them. Seeking counseling and support groups are a great place to start. Click Here for the American Stroke Association Support Group Finder
Neuroplasticity and Stroke Recovery
Did you know the brain can heal and adapt after a stroke through neuroplasticity? By consistently practicing skills and challenging yourself, you can reshape your brain and boost recovery. We can learn to move throughout the lifespan utilizing these 10 principles of neuroplasticity:
Use It or Lose It
Not using a brain function can lead to its degradation. Inactivity causes brain connections to weaken.Use It and Improve It
Repeatedly engaging in a task strengthens the related neural pathways, improving performance.Specificity
The type of training determines the nature of plasticity. Practice the exact skill you want to regain.Repetition Matters
Sufficient repetition is required to create lasting neural change. One attempt isn’t enough.Intensity Matters
The level of effort and challenge needs to be high enough to drive meaningful brain change.Time Matters
Neuroplasticity happens at different stages—early rehab is ideal, but change is still possible later.Salience Matters
The activity must be meaningful and important to the person to drive brain change.Age Matters
Neuroplasticity is stronger in younger brains but still very possible at any age, especially with effort.Transference
Training one skill can help improve similar skills (e.g., fine motor skills aiding buttoning and writing).Interference
Learning wrong or maladaptive patterns (like compensating with only one side) can hinder recovery.Mastering Mental Health and Coping with Depression After Stroke
Surviving a stroke takes immense strength, and working with a psychologist can help boost confidence and support recovery. Managing depression with professional help has been shown to improve functional outcomes in stroke survivors.
Commonly Asked Questions
What can I expect with stroke rehabilitation?
At Audia Physical Therapy we know every case is unique and we take the time to be detailed and thorough with your care. Many of our patients have gone through typical insurance-based therapy programs prior to coming to us and have found that insurance-based therapy ended before they reached their personal goals, or that their goals were never addressed. Here at Audia Physical Therapy we don’t stop until you are satisfied. You can expect to receive expert care informed in the latest research in neurologic physical therapy.
Will I get my hand/arm back?
Many stroke survivors go through an initial period of being unable to use their hand and arm. We have seen many clients regain use of their hand and arm starting therapy a year or more after initial injury. As every case is unique, you will be able to gauge your personal timeline after seeing your progress in the first month.