The Stages of Stroke Recovery

According to stroke expert, Anne Burleigh Jacobs, the phases of recovery first set out by Siegfried Brunstrum in the 60’s are still valid and very useful to understand when dealing with a loved one who has suffered a stroke.

• The first phase is flaccidity. The limb or area is flaccid and there is no voluntary movement. This area corresponds the period of cerebral stroke after a stroke.  
• The second phase is when some muscle tone returns. During this phase, the brain is beginning the long road to recovery.
• The third stage is when the tone experiences a setback, in that there is a loss of tone. This can be a frightening stage, but it actually demonstrates that the brain is progressing in its recovery. This stage is marked by uneven and stiff movements, with the arm and leg turning in toward the body.
• In the fourth stage, the tone decreases again, and people begin to develop volitional, or intentional, motion again, such as reaching with a straight elbow.
• In the fifth stage, tone becomes minimal and movement becomes much easier.
• Stage six is a return to voluntary movement.  

During recovery from a stroke, the brain has to reroute signals for movements, and it is important to stay patient and work hard to recover. The recovery process can be long, but is worth it. Depending on the severity of the stroke, in-home physical therapy may go one for some time, at least until mobility is recovered. There are new tools and new techniques emerging in the field frequently. Call All About Home Care to inquire about in-home care, including skilled nursing, occupational therapy, and in-home physical therapy.