Regaining Strength and Mobility After Stroke: How Exercise Supports Recovery

A stroke is a cerebrovascular event that occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted. This disruption can lead to neurological deficits and loss of function, with the severity and type of impairments depending on the area of the brain affected (Lee et al., 2022).

At Northside Allied Health, this topic is especially close to our hearts. Our founder and director, Liz, experienced a stroke in 2014. Through her own recovery journey, she experienced firsthand how the right exercise program combined with a strong support team can help rebuild strength, restore independence, and improve quality of life. Her personal journey fuels our passion for helping others on their path to recovery.

Effects of Stroke

Stroke can lead to a wide range of changes, including:

1. Motor impairments: Weakness or paralysis (often affecting one side of the body).

2. Speech and language difficulties: Aphasia or dysarthria.

3. Gait and mobility issues.

4. Coordination and balance problems.

5. Cognitive or perceptual deficits.

6. Sensory impairments.

7. Emotional or mood changes: Depression, anxiety, or emotional instability.

Types of Stroke

1. Ischemic Stroke – Caused by a blockage in a cerebral artery, often due to a blood clot or atherosclerosis. This is the most common type, accounting for 80–85% of cases.

2. Hemorrhagic Stroke – Caused by bleeding in or around the brain due to a ruptured blood vessel, accounting for 15–20% of cases.

Phases of Stroke Recovery & the Role of Movement

1. Acute Phase (0–7 days)

• Focus: Medical stabilisation and preventing complications.

• Exercise role:

  • Gentle bed mobility, sitting, or supported standing.

  • Passive or assisted range-of-motion exercises.

  • Preventing contractures, pressure sores, and muscle loss.

2. Subacute Phase (1 week – 3 to 6 months)

• Focus: Rehabilitation and regaining independence.

• Exercise role:

  • Task-specific training (walking, sit-to-stand, reaching).

  • Strength and endurance exercises to restore muscle function.

  • Balance and coordination training to improve stability.

  • Repetitive, goal-driven practice to promote neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to rewire itself).

  • Gait training and light cardiovascular conditioning.

3. Chronic Phase (6 months+)

• Focus: Long-term adaptation and secondary prevention.

• Exercise role:

  • Ongoing strength and aerobic exercise.

  • Addressing residual deficits, like reduced mobility or balance issues.

  • Supporting cardiovascular health to lower the risk of another stroke.

  • Encouraging community programs for independence and quality of life.

Why Exercise Matters After a Stroke

Regular, guided movement can:

• Improve mobility, posture, and balance.

• Rebuild strength and motor control.

• Enhance walking ability and independence in daily life.

• Boost cardiovascular health and lower the risk of a second stroke.

• Prevent complications like muscle loss, contractures, or spasticity.

Liz’s recovery journey is a testament to these benefits. Through consistent, guided exercise, she regained strength, improved her confidence, and returned to living a full and active life, an outcome that inspires the work we do with every stroke client today.

Gentle Exercises to Support Recovery

Under the guidance of an Exercise Physiologist, stroke recovery may include:

• Range of Motion (ROM): Maintaining joint mobility through active or assisted movement.

• Supported Movements: Guided activities to safely regain control and strength.

• Strength Training: Gradual, low-intensity resistance exercises.

• Balance and Core Stability: Seated or standing drills to reduce fall risk.

• Task-Specific Practice: Functional tasks like grasping, stepping, or reaching to build new neural pathways.

• Sensory Function Training: Activities to improve body awareness.

• Hydrotherapy: Gentle, water-based sessions to restore strength, confidence, and mobility in a supported environment.

Emotional Benefits of Regaining Independence

Physical recovery after a stroke doesn’t just build strength it can significantly improve mental and emotional well-being (Shahid et al., 2023).

Benefits include:

• Improved confidence and self-reliance.

• Enhanced quality of life and social engagement.

• Opportunities to return to work or meaningful activities.

• Better cognitive function, including memory and problem-solving.

• Improved sleep and energy levels.

The Role of an Exercise Physiologist in Stroke Recovery

Recovery is most effective when it’s a team effort. Exercise Physiologists (EPs) collaborate with other healthcare providers to create a tailored, safe, and progressive program.

Here’s how an EP supports your recovery:

• Collaborative planning with physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, and doctors.

• Progress monitoring through regular assessments and updates to your care team.

• Education and support for both patients and families.

• Behaviour change strategies to help you maintain long-term health.

• Holistic care that considers physical, cognitive, and emotional needs.

Takeaway

Stroke recovery is a journey, but with the right exercise plan, progress is possible at every stage. At Northside Allied Health, Liz’s personal experience reminds us every day of the power of movement and support. With expert guidance from an Exercise Physiologist and a multidisciplinary team, you can rebuild strength, restore confidence, and reclaim independence one step at a time.

References

1. Lee, K. E., Choi, M., & Jeoung, B. (2022). Effectiveness of rehabilitation exercise in improving physical function of stroke patients: a systematic review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(19), 12739.

2. Shahid, J., Kashif, A., & Shahid, M. K. (2023). A comprehensive review of physical therapy interventions for stroke rehabilitation: impairment-based approaches and functional goals. Brain Sciences, 13(5), 717.