Tuesday, July 8, 2014

5 Low-cost Alternatives for Stroke Therapy

I'm sorry but this is just once again dumping all the recovery needs onto survivors. Because your in-patient rehabilitation was not even close to being successful, your doctor and therapists basically have to let you figure out the rest of your rehab on your own. What a crock of shit for all survivors.
http://www.strokesmart.org/new?id=241
From rebuilding your muscles to working out your brain, recovering from a stroke is a combination of challenging both body and mind. While physical therapy is a common and often successful form of rehabilitation post-stroke, continuing treatment in the months and years after can be pricey, even with health insurance.
These five treatment alternatives won’t break the bank and might even lead you to discovering a new hobby while continuing your recovery.
Check out community calendars. Many local resources and organizations offer affordable, or even free, activities. Look for:
• Classes available through your city’s parks and recreation department
• Continuing adult education programs through local schools
• Outdoor recreation groups
These can be valuable resources for discovering new activities that combine both physical and mental challenges advantageous to stroke recovery. From group hikes to archery lessons, the activities can aid recovery and also give you an outlet to socialize.
Volunteer. Whether it’s for a stroke support group, a stroke center at a local hospital or another cause, donating your time can not only help other survivors, but can also have a positive impact on your own recovery.
Work your brain. There are many activities that can exercise your brain, and most are free and easy to find.
• Read a book
• Make your best attempt at the Sunday crossword puzzle
• Write letters
Even playing a video game can exercise your brain. Recent research found that video games may also help improve arm motor function, with success rates up to five times higher than typical physical therapy.
Hire a personal trainer. Although a more expensive option, a fitness expert at a local gym is a great option to continue your physical therapy and improve your overall health. It’s a great way to get regular exercise and strengthen parts of your body affected by the stroke.
Stick together. Sharing your stroke experiences with other survivors and socializing regularly will likely improve your positive outlook, which can do wonders for recovery. And many stroke support groups are free of charge. To find a stroke support group near you, visit National Stroke Association’s national registry here.

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