From the Guidelines
Post-stroke patients should aim to achieve at least 40-minute sessions, 3 to 4 times per week of moderate- to vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, tailored to their exercise tolerance, stage of recovery, environment, available social support, physical activity preferences, and specific impairments. This recommendation is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which emphasizes the importance of regular physical activity in reducing stroke risk and improving overall recovery 1.
Key Components of Post-Stroke Activity
- Physical therapy exercises focusing on strength, balance, and coordination, starting with gentle movements and gradually increasing intensity as tolerated
- Occupational therapy activities to regain independence in daily tasks
- Speech therapy for those with communication difficulties
- Cognitive rehabilitation activities such as puzzles, memory games, and reading to improve mental function
- Regular cardiovascular exercise, like supervised walking or stationary cycling, to promote overall recovery and reduce the risk of future strokes
Importance of Professional Guidance
Activities should be performed under professional guidance, especially initially, to ensure safety and effectiveness. This guidance can help tailor the activities to the individual's specific needs and abilities, taking into account their stage of recovery and any impairments they may have 1.
Additional Considerations
Social engagement and emotional support through group activities or counseling can also significantly benefit recovery by addressing the psychological aspects of stroke recovery. The brain's neuroplasticity allows it to form new connections, making consistent practice of these activities vital for optimal recovery. Lifestyle-based interventions for stroke secondary prevention have been shown to be effective in increasing physical activity participation after stroke 1.
From the Research
Recommended Activities for Post-Stroke Patients
The following activities are recommended for post-stroke patients to improve their physical and psychosocial health:
- Aerobic exercise, such as walking, to improve aerobic fitness, cardiovascular fitness, cognitive abilities, and quality of life 2
- Strength training to improve functionality, psychosocial aspects, and quality of life 2, 3
- Flexibility exercises, such as stretching, to relieve muscle spasticity problems, improve motor function, and prevent contractures 2
- Neuromuscular exercises to improve activities of daily living (ADL) through coordination and balance activities 2
- Traditional Chinese exercises, such as tai chi, to improve walking and balance ability, as well as increase muscle strength 2
Importance of Physical Activity
Physical activity is crucial for post-stroke patients to improve their physical health and reduce the risk of recurrent stroke and mortality:
- Post-stroke patients should aim to perform at least 10,000 steps per day to achieve health benefits 4
- High-intensity walking and step activity interventions can increase physical activity in post-stroke patients 5
- Combining physical activity interventions with behavioral interventions, such as step activity monitoring and goal-setting, can lead to greater improvements in physical activity 5
Considerations for Post-Stroke Rehabilitation
When designing a rehabilitation program for post-stroke patients, the following considerations should be taken into account:
- The patient's individual needs and abilities should be assessed to determine the most appropriate exercises and activities 2, 3
- A combination of different types of exercises, such as aerobic, strength, and flexibility exercises, may be more effective than a single type of exercise 2
- The patient's progress should be regularly monitored and the rehabilitation program adjusted as needed to ensure optimal outcomes 3, 5