What is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when the brain’s blood supply is interrupted. Arteries are the blood
vessels that carry oxygen and essential nutrients to the brain. This interruption can occur
if an artery becomes blocked (called an ischemic stroke) or bursts (called a hemorrhagic
stroke). When blood flow stops, brain cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients and
begin to die. The part of the brain that is damaged by the stroke is known as a cerebral
infarct.
Common Challenges After a Stroke
After an individual has a stroke they can be affected in a number of different ways
including physically, cognitively and emotionally.
Common challenges can include:
● Loss of strength on one side of the body
● Weakness or drooping of the face
● Changes in sensation, for example, numbness and pins and needles
● Balance problems
● Fatigue
● Loss of field of vision
● Coordination difficulties
● Difficulties knowing right from left or judging depth and distance
● Speech, communication, attention deficits
Rehabilitation Process
What can I expect in terms of recovery?
Stroke affects each person differently. Some people make a full recovery, while others
may continue to experience challenges or long-term disability.
The first year after a stroke is a
key window for recovery, so
rehabilitation should be a top
priority during this time. As time
passes, the body’s ability to adapt
gradually slows, and recovery
may become less rapid.
That said, the brain continues to
heal over time, and progress can
still be made even years after a
stroke — especially in cases of
more severe strokes, which often
require a longer recovery period.
Staying active and exercising
regularly can support and
enhance recovery for most individuals.
Exercise and How It Can Help
Exercise plays a key role in helping stroke survivors recover lost body function. It
supports the brain’s ability to form new connections — a process known as “rewiring” —
to restore movement, balance, and coordination. This improvement in physical ability
helps people return to everyday activities and maintain their independence. Exercise
after a stroke can:
● Help you to stay healthy and feel good
● Reduce the chance of another stroke
● Improve your balance and muscle strength
● Reduce fatigue and lessen pain
● Improve your mood
● Maintain endurance for everyday activities
What Type of Exercise Should I Do?
The World Health Organization highlights two key types of exercise to focus on:
activities that strengthen the heart and lungs (cardiovascular training) and those
that build muscle strength. Both forms of exercise will raise your heart rate and make
you feel warmer. When exercising at a higher intensity or for a longer duration, you
might become slightly out of breath, but you should still be able to talk. Including both
cardio and strength exercises throughout your week is important for overall health
and fitness.
The great thing is that many everyday movements can count as exercise. Climbing stairs,
carrying groceries, and gardening are all good examples of physical activity. Ideally, aim
for around 150 minutes of cardiovascular activity (like walking or cycling) each
week, along with 2 to 3 strength-focused sessions. Finding exercises you enjoy is
key — and involving friends or family can make it even more enjoyable!
Setting goals is a helpful way to create routine, monitor your progress, and stay
motivated. It’s important to start with goals that are realistic and achievable. Talking
through your goals with a health professional can provide extra guidance and support.
For example, a manageable goal might be to do 20 minutes of activity each day that
raises your heart rate. You don’t have to start with the full 20 minutes — beginning
with 10 minutes once or twice a day and gradually building up is a great way to ease