From the Guidelines
Hand grip exercises are highly beneficial for stroke recovery, helping to restore strength and function in weakened hands. I recommend starting with a soft stress ball or therapy putty, squeezing it for 5-10 seconds and releasing, repeating 10-15 times per set with 2-3 sets daily 1. As strength improves, progress to using a hand gripper with adjustable resistance, starting at the lowest setting. Other effective exercises include finger extensions with rubber bands, wrist curls with light weights (1-2 pounds), and functional activities like picking up small objects. Begin with 10-15 minutes of exercise twice daily, gradually increasing duration and resistance as tolerated. These exercises work by rebuilding neural pathways damaged by stroke through neuroplasticity, while also preventing muscle atrophy and improving circulation. Consistency is crucial for recovery, so establish a regular routine. If you experience pain (not just muscle fatigue), stop and consult your healthcare provider. Combining these exercises with occupational therapy typically yields the best results for hand function recovery after stroke.
Some key points to consider:
- Resistance-training programs are also recommended for clinically stable stroke patients, with 10 to 15 repetitions for each set of exercises, 2 to 3 days per week, and including a minimum of 1 set of 8 to 10 different exercises that involve the major muscle groups 1.
- Aerobic exercise has been shown to improve glucose tolerance in people with stroke, and reductions in blood pressure and improvements in total cholesterol have been reported after moderate-intensity aerobic exercise in stroke survivors 1.
- The use of a comprehensive exercise and lifestyle program modeled after cardiac rehabilitation in people after a TIA and mild stroke was shown to yield improvements in total cholesterol, body composition, blood pressure, and behavior change toward nonsmoking 1.
- Virtual reality and interactive video gaming have been reported to be beneficial in improving arm function and in the performance of activities of daily living in stroke survivors 1.
Overall, a well-structured exercise program, including hand grip exercises, can help improve functional outcomes and reduce the risk of recurrent stroke and other cardiovascular diseases in stroke survivors.
From the Research
Hand Grip for Stroke
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that specifically addresses hand grip for stroke patients.
- However, studies have explored various aspects of stroke rehabilitation, including physical rehabilitation approaches 2, rehabilitation nursing 3, and the use of assistive technologies to manage contractures 4.
- These studies suggest that physical rehabilitation, including exercises and therapies, can improve functional recovery and mobility in stroke patients 2.
- Additionally, rehabilitation nursing focuses on goals, outcomes, and the attainment or maintenance of functional capacity, which may include hand grip strength 3.
- Assistive technologies, such as orthotic devices, may also be used to manage contractures and improve range of motion, potentially benefiting hand grip 4.
- While the evidence does not directly address hand grip, it highlights the importance of comprehensive rehabilitation programs and the potential benefits of various therapies and technologies in improving functional outcomes for stroke patients 5, 6.