A stroke is an abrupt interruption of blood flow to the brain. There are three main types of strokes. Ischemic strokes are the most common and involve a blockage or clot in the artery supplying blood to the brain; hemorrhagic strokes occur when an artery to the brain ruptures; meanwhile, a transient ischemic attack—a  mini-stroke—involves a temporary blockage of blood flow. Any stroke can require rehabilitation to restore a patient's health and abilities. Below, three types of rehab are discussed in more detail.

A Guide to Different Forms of Stoke Rehabilitation

1. Speech Therapy

The left side of the brain controls language. When a stroke affects this region, a patient will have trouble forming words, and their speech may be fragmented or difficult to decipher. During speech therapy sessions, a professional helps patients build the muscles in the mouth, jaw, and tongue. They also guide them through activities—including reading, games, and role-playing—to inspire word retrieval.

2. Physical Therapy

Strokes can damage the part of the brain responsible for movement. Paralysis, weakness, or coordination issues are not uncommon in certain parts of the body. A physical therapist helps the patient relearn basic motions and the motor skills necessary for daily functioning, including walking, sitting, and changing positions. They use exercises and tools to build the patient's muscles and improve balance, grip, and mobility.

3. Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy aids stroke victims in relearning and maintaining a certain amount of independence and self-sufficiency. In slight contrast to physical therapy, it targets those abilities a person needs to navigate their daily lives and involves developing workarounds if their old methods of performing these tasks are no longer possible. This might include training on how to bathe, dress, and groom oneself, control one's bladder and bowels, and make meals and keep a clean home.

For example, if the person in question can no longer successfully bend down to retrieve an item that fell on the floor, they might suggest a tool that can grab it for you and work on improving your grip strength instead.

Because strokes can impact everyone differently, rehabilitation is always tailored to the unique needs of the patient. Since 1986, The Vineyards at Concord has been offering rehab programs to seniors in the Frankfort and Chillicothe, OH, area. They are a full-service facility that also provides skilled nursing, dementia, and hospice care. Have the support you need to regain your health, stability, and independence. Call The Vineyards at Concord at (740) 998-4777 with questions. Visit them online to schedule an appointment.