Stroke is one of the many diseases that cause deaths worldwide. In 2016, more than 195000 deaths were reported worldwide. So, this disease must be managed with the utmost concern and care.

But before hopping on to the treatment options for Stroke Paralysis, we should take a look at what stroke is and what complications arise from this issue. 

Stroke

A stroke is a Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is diminished. This blockage of oxygen to the brain leads to injury in the hypoxic region.

Signs and Symptoms of a stroke

Stroke affects are seen on the side that is controlled by the affected part of the brain.

This means if a stroke occurs on the right side of the brain effects are seen on the left side of the body because the right brain controls the left side of the body. 

The signs and symptoms on the affected side include:

•     Paralysis of the affected side
•     Numbness and weakness of the muscles of face and limbs (upper and lower)\
•     Spasticity of muscles
•     Dysphagia (trouble swallowing)
•     Slurred speech

Paralysis from Stroke

Paralysis is characterized by an inability to move the muscles that are linked to altered motor signaling in the brain.

Paraplegia, quadriplegia, and hemiplegia are common types of paralysis. However, stroke almost always causes Hemiplegia which is paralysis on one side of the body.

Treatment Options for Stroke patients suffering from Paralysis

Now that a link between paralysis and stroke is established, we will try to inform you of treatment options that help in stroke paralysis patients.

All these treatment modalities aim to improve neuroplasticity. 

Neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to create new neural connections between neurons. Thus, an increase in the neuroplasticity can help improve in rehabilitation.

This type of Neurorehabilitation is being employed to treat several neurological disorders.

Exercises for mobility

Passive exercises are proven to be a verified method of rehabilitation. These exercises help patients regain mobility after stroke paralysis.

You can consult a Physiotherapist or any medical health professional to provide you services. Exercise improves the connection between muscles and the brain. It also helps keep muscle wasting at bay.

Passive exercises and Aerobic exercises aimed at improving neuroplasticity are effective in the rehabilitation of stroke paralysis patients. These exercises promote neural development that lends support to plasticity.

Exercises play a vital role in the recovery process for patients with severe stroke attack. If you want to know more about Stroke exercises, click here.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has proven to be effective in improving the range of movement in stroke paralysis patients. Sham acupuncture and real acupuncture very equally effective in bringing some positive changes.

Sham acupuncture is placebo acupuncture where no needles are inserted inside the body and only touched on the skin. The similar effects of sham acupuncture make the results of acupuncture dubious.

• Electro-acupuncture

Electro-acupuncture is similar to acupuncture. The only difference is that minute levels of current are introduced in the acupuncture needles.

This therapy can be used as a complementary therapy for cognitive impairment repair in stroke patients.

In another study, it was demonstrated that microRNAs play an important role in the rehabilitation of stroke patients. Electroacupuncture enhances the release of miRNAs and thus, improves axonal regeneration.

• Laser acupuncture

Laser Acupuncture at GV20 acupoint has shown a significant decrease in the volume of brain infarct by reducing oxidative stress.

Electrical stimulation

In this procedure, non-invasive electrical stimulation devices are placed inside the brain. The aim is to cause muscle strengthening and to overcome the effects of stroke paralysis.

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NEMS) devices are used. The use of these devices not only improves limb mobility but is also advantageous in reducing spasticity. NEMS devices help improve swallowing function too.

Mirror Therapy

Mirror therapy is a simple and easy-to-follow treatment method used to improve hand movement after stroke.

Hands are the most used organs of the body for gripping, holding, catching, and throwing purposes. A loss of hand control is debilitating for the stroke paralysis patients.

But this simple technique can help in evident improvement.

It involves placing a mirror over the affected hand. Once the mirror is placed, carry out hand therapy exercises using your un-affected hand with guidance available at apricushealth.com.au.

This has a “trick” effect on the brain that aids in rewiring the neuron channels. According to a study, Mirror therapy improves upper motor function in stroke patients.

Conclusion

Stroke is a severely debilitating disease that results in paralysis and muscle weakness. Different treatment options such as exercise, acupuncture, electrical stimulation, and mirror therapy can be used to improve cognition, reduce spasticity, and increase range of motion.