STROKE OR CEREBRAL VASCULAR ACCIDENT

A stroke, or cerebral vascular accident or a transient ischemic, happens when a blood vessel is blocked or ruptures. It is an emergency as disruption in blood flow can cause brain cells to die. 

There are 2 different types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic. 

Ischemic stroke is the most common, accounts for 87% of  all stroke. Ischemic stroke happens with the blood vessel is blocked. The most common cause of an ischemic stroke is fatty deposit on the wall lining of the vessel. 

Hemorrhagic stroke happens with a vessel is ruptured. The most common cause of hemorrhagic stroke is high blood pressure. When a blood vessel bursts, blood builds up and causes damage to the brain cells. 

BE FAST

• Balance lost
• Eyesight issues
• Facial droop
• Arm weakness 
• Speech difficulty 
• Time to call IMMEDIATELY 

Recovery from a stroke is dependent on:

• Location and severity of the stroke
• How quickly you receive care
• Other health conditions
• Amount and type of therapy you receive 

A physical therapist can help with regaining walking ability and balance, re-learning ability to perform daily activities, fitting and prescribing equipments such as: custom wheelchair, walking aide, adaptive equipments. Treatment options can include but not limited to:

• Functional and task specific training
• High intensity gait training
• Strength training
• Balance training 
• Functional electrical stimulation
• Body weight support training 

Dr. Nguyen is a Certified Stroke Rehab Specialist.

The CSRS is the field's only stroke certification for Physical therapists and Occupational therapists. It is a vigorous program that combine evidence-based lectures and hands-on training. CSRS therapists have deeper knowledge of treatment interventions in both upper and lower extremities in the stroke population.