Imagine waking up one day and realizing that simple tasks—like reaching for a cup of coffee or taking a step forward—have become incredibly difficult. For stroke survivors, this is often a daily reality. A stroke can change everything in an instant, affecting movement, speech, and independence. But recovery is possible, and every small step forward counts.
Stroke is a medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, either due to a blockage in a blood vessel or bleeding in the brain. This can result in damage to brain cells and can cause a range of physical and cognitive impairments. Manual therapy is a form of physical therapy that involves hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility, muscle function, and overall physical function.
In stroke rehabilitation, manual therapy can be used to address a range of impairments, including spasticity, range of motion limitations, and muscle weakness. Some common manual therapy techniques used in stroke rehabilitation include joint mobilization, soft tissue mobilization, and stretching.
Several studies have investigated the effectiveness of manual therapy in stroke rehabilitation. One systematic review published in the Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases found that manual therapy can be effective in improving range of motion, reducing pain, and improving overall function in stroke patients. Another systematic review published in Frontiers in Neurology found that manual therapy can be effective in reducing spasticity and improving motor function in stroke patients.
Overall, while the evidence on the effectiveness of manual therapy in stroke rehabilitation is mixed, it appears that manual therapy can be a valuable adjunct to traditional rehabilitation techniques for stroke patients. As with any rehabilitation intervention, it is important to work with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on an individual's specific needs and goals.
For more readings:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09638288.2023.2193432
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1356689X09002112
Some YouTube resources:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8F-znAWs98
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrtMbqY7JmA