What are the chances of recovery from paralysis after a stroke?
The prognosis for paralysis after a stroke depends on various factors. The time of therapy, the severity of the disorder and the reserve capacity of the brain play an important role. A clinical improvement of the symptoms can usually be seen after two months.
However, this is a lengthy process that requires a great deal of discipline. After all, the more often the exercises of the physiotherapists are repeated, the higher the chances of a cure or at least an alleviation of the symptoms. The exercises stimulate the reorganization of nerve cells – neighboring areas can thus take over the function of the damaged area.
An early and intensive start of rehabilitation is particularly important. Various studies have shown that intensive early rehabilitation is decisive for the regression of symptoms. In the case of paralysis, motor functions can be learned again.
However, it must also be said that paralysis is a serious neurological disorder which in rare cases heals completely. The patient must be able to get from bed on the wheelchair and from the wheelchair back to independent walking as quickly as possible.As mentioned above, this is not only very positive for movement training, it also prevents complications. The number of steps in each training unit seems to have a great effect.
Paralysis of the upper extremities exists in 80% of those affected. In the first two months, patients can already relearn the movement of their fingers. If the function of the hand has not recovered after half a year, the chances of improvement are significantly lower.
It is also very important here to integrate the hand into everyday activities and to practice repeatedly. It is important for patients with paralysis to prevent cramping (spasticity). In addition, the prognosis depends on the previous diseases, such as diabetes mellitus or cardiac arrhythmia.
These increase the risk of complications and reduce the chances of recovery. For this reason, patients should be monitored regularly, especially during the acute phase. Blood sugar, blood pressure and body temperature should be kept stable. All this can have a positive effect on recovery and thus increases the chances of cure.
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