Post Stroke Rehabilitation

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Introduction
The idea of neuroplasticity has sparked interest in utilizing its power to cure diseases that were once thought as incurable. Neuroplasticity is the brains ability to reorganize itself by making new neuronal pathways. The exploration of behavioral therapies concerning the neuroplasticity of the brain towards the rehabilitation of stroke victims is important in today’s society. Since, the possibility in creating new scientific discoveries will aid in the recovery of post stroke patients suffering from debilitating consequences following a stroke.

A leading cause of disability in North America is stroke (Gresham, Duncan, Stason, 2004). Stroke is primarily caused by an interruption or a blockage towards the blood supply of the brain. …show more content…

The extent of these disabilities varies from individuals, but most post-stroke patients follow the conventional rehabilitation program of a four weeks session, including post-stroke rehabilitation. Although the use of medication and conventional therapy has been used widely towards stroke victims, a full recovery is not guaranteed, as many patients do not make significant improvements. The utilization of non-invasive behavioral therapies on the neuroplasticity of the brain can prove momentous in improving recovery of patients suffering form the aftermath of a stroke. Thus, leading to the investigation on how effective are behavioral therapies focused on the neuroplasticity of the brain towards stroke rehabilitation …show more content…

Most stroke victims, who undergo the usual course of rehabilitation, rarely achieve great improvements in their motor skills. A prime example is Dr. Michael Bernstein, an eye surgeon who experienced a debilitating stroke that paralyzed his left side of his body at the age of 44 (Doidge, 2007). He went through a week of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and another three weeks of rehabilitation, but his recovery was for from finished. His left hand barely functioned and he relied on a cane to walk. Dr. Bernstein was one of the first few patients to undergo the Taub Therapy, where Dr. Edward Taub established the use of (CI) Movement therapy. Through Taub’s program, Dr. Bernstein is now able to play tennis, use his left hand and walk without a cane, (Doidge,

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