Physiotherapy After Stroke

• Practice the exercises your therapist has set you.
• Keep to a routine of exercising at a regular time each day.
• Remember the more you do the better, so try to exercise every day or at least three times a week.
• Use a notebook to remind you what you need to do and record your progress.
• Remember to involve and move your affected side as much as possible.
• Be patient with yourself. You are aiming for long-term rather than immediate results.
• Many people worry that being active might cause another stroke. This is very unlikely but if you have any pain or are excessively breathless (getting a little out of breath is a good thing) then stop. If this does not subside after a short rest then seek medical attention.
• If you suffer from post-stroke fatigue, exercise can help but start slowly and build it up gradually. Choose a time of day to exercise when you are feeling relatively lively. Recognise that you may need to rest afterwards.
• Take steps to keep to a sensible weight.
• Join an exercise group or stroke club to meet and be encouraged by other people. Contact us for details of clubs in your area.
• Ask your physiotherapist about resuming sports and activities that you enjoy.
• Try new activities that will help you to maintain or improve your recovery.