Stroke

Definition:

The cardiovascular system consists of the heart and the arteries which carry oxygen rich blood to the tissues of the body, and the veins which carry blood back from the tissues to be circulated through the lungs to discharge CO2, carbon dioxide, and absorb fresh oxygen.

The basic problem is usually a disease of the arteries called atherosclerosis which is a build up of fatty tissues in the walls of the arteries, like water pipes furring up, and makes them more likely to become blocked by a blood clot, because the blood is flowing so slowly that is clots , or the damaged blood vessel may burst.

This may occur in the brain resulting in a stroke.

Benefit of exercise therapy: 

It was once thought that the main benefits of movement in people with neurological disease was that it prevented loss of muscle strength and stiffness of the joints. However it is now clear that another important benefit is the direct action on the brain, particularly those parts of the brain adversely affected by injury or disease. It was thought that the brain did not develop or create new cells after  childhood but it is now known that new connections can be formed at any age in what is called neuroplasticity and it may even happen that new nerve cells are created in what is called neurogenesis. It is very important therefore to practice old skills and gain new skills.

The Stroke Association gives very clear guidance and encouragement with eight clearly defined actions:

1. Getting moving after a stroke 

2. Getting moving after a stroke 

3. Why should I move more after stroke?

4. Moving more every day

5. Exercising after stroke

6. Set yourself movement goals

7. How to stay motivated

8. Common worries about getting active after stroke

9. Download our Getting active after a stroke guide

Key organisations:

The Stroke Association