Rehabilitation After Stroke

Goals of Stroke Rehabilitation

Several clinical trials have shown that rehabilitation should begin immediately after the stroke, as soon as the patient is medically stable. Basic goals of stroke rehabilitation include:

• Preventing recurrent stroke and secondary medical complications
• Avoiding medical complications such as deconditioning due to immobility and prolonged bed rest
• Encouraging self-care for the patient
• Teaching the patient to function as independently as possible in Activities of Daily Living through intensive therapy
• Providing guidance and emotional support to the family and caregiver
• Helping the patient and family reintegrate into the community