In last month’s newsletter we introduced some exercises for those who have been mildly affected by stroke. If you were moderately affected by stroke, we may have your attention in this time. You many use a wheelchair most of the time, you are probably able to walk, with the aid of another person or by using a walking aid. When walking, you may “lead” with the unaffected side, leaving the other side behind. Therefore, often balance problems and difficulty shifting weights toward the affected side appear.
* Promote flexibility and relaxation of muscles on the affected side
* Help return to more normal movement
* Improve balance and coordination
* Decrease pain and stiffness
* Maintain range of motion in the affected arm and leg
Before beginning with these exercises, please be ensured that your clothing will not restrict movements. It is not necessary to wear shorts such as shown in the illustrations, leisure clothing such as sweat suits or jogging suits is appropriate.
Exercise 1: To enhance shoulder motion and possibly prevent shoulder pain
To enhance shoulder motion and possibly prevent shoulder pain: Lie on your back on a firm bed, and interlace your fingers with your hands resting on your stomach. Slowly raise your arms to shoulder level, keeping your elbows straight. At last, return your hands to resting position on your stomach.
Another similar exercise will help you to maintain shoulder motion, especially for someone who has difficulty rolling over in bed. While raising your hand and straightening your elbows, slowly move your hands to one side and then the other.
Exercise 2: To promote motion in the pelvis, hip and knee
Lie on your back on a firm bed and keep your interlaced fingers resting on your stomach. Bend your knees and put your feet flat on the bed. Holding your knees tightly together and slowly move them as far to the right as possible, return to the centre and repeat it by moving them to the left.
Exercise 3: In this exercise, movements needed to rise from a sitting position
Sit on a firm chair that has been placed against the wall to prevent slipping. Interlace your fingers; reach forward with your hands. With your feet slightly apart and your hips at the edge of the seat, lean forward, lifting your hips up slightly from the seat, then slowly return to sitting.
An important thing is to take your time when you exercise. Don’t rush the movements or strain to complete them. If the pain occurs, move only to the point where it begins to hurt. If the pain continues, don’t do this exercise.
Sources:
Circulation Journal of the American heart Association
National stroke association
