Exercise after stroke

Exercise after stroke can be one of the best activities you can do to continue in your recovery and help you return to your fullest level of independence and function. It can help improve your strength, balance range of motion and more. However, after a stroke, everyone’s activity level is different. You may be able to exercise independently, or you may need assistance from a health care professional, likely a physical therapist. Whatever the case may be, make sure you consult your doctor before beginning a new exercise regimen.

How to determine if exercise is safe after stroke

If you or your loved one think you are ready to begin exercising after a stroke, first undergo a medical evaluation with your health care provider. This could include reviewing any pre-existing conditions you had prior to your stroke that could affect your ability to exercise, as well as any new ones you might have related to your stroke.

You could also undergo an exercise assessment as part of your evaluation. This will help your care team understand your current physical abilities, so you can establish goals and create an exercise plan that is right for you.

If you can exercise on your own, your team will establish a plan that meets your preferences and goals that you can perform on your own time.

If they determine you need can’t exercise independently, they will create a supervised plan with a health care professional.

Types of exercises for stroke recovery

After a stroke, it’s important to start exercising at the right level. If you require supervision from a physical therapist or other health care professional, exercises could include walking on a treadmill with handrails or riding a stationary bike.

Whether performed independently or in a supervised setting, exercise after stroke will likely include:

• Gait training. Usually performed with the assistance of physical therapist, these types of exercises can help you if you are not fully walking again after your stroke. They could include knee extensions, seated marching and single leg stands.
• Stretching and range of motion. These exercises can help with stiffness and tight muscles that are common after a stroke. Exercises could include yoga, Pilates, dance and tai chi.
• Balance. These exercises help strengthen the muscles in your legs and core to help you remain upright and prevent a fall. They could include single leg stands, backwards walking and heel stands, all with or without support, depending on your activity level.
• Resistance training. If your doctor has cleared you for resistance training, incorporating light weights and resistance training into your routine can help build strength and endurance.

As you continue to get stronger, you can add in moderate exercise such as brisk walking, and finally progress to rigorous exercise, which could include running or other high impact activities.

Benefits of exercise after stroke

There are several benefits of exercise after stroke. In addition to supporting and improving your overall recovery after stroke, exercise can:

• Improve physical function such as walking, mobility and balance
• Improve mental function and mood
• Reduce the risk of a second stroke
• Help manage heart conditions such as high blood pressure
• Reduce the risk of a fall

Starting an exercise program after stroke can feel overwhelming, but if you consult your doctor and start small and add more as you progress and recover, the benefits are vast.