Can Rehabilitation Help After a Mild Stroke in Seniors?
Mild stroke? Hello, Doctor! My mother is 65 years old and has been healthy with annual health check-ups. However, she seems to have suddenly experienced a mild stroke, with issues in one hand and one foot. Is rehabilitation possible? Thank you!
Dr. Su Hongci Reply:
The significance of rehabilitation lies in the hope that patients who have lost certain normal bodily functions due to illness can enhance their remaining abilities through rehabilitative treatment and training, ultimately achieving self-sufficiency in daily living. This is the p...[Read More] Can Rehabilitation Help After a Mild Stroke in Seniors?
Improving Leg Strength After a Mild Stroke: Rehabilitation Tips
Muscle strength of the legs Hello, Doctor: My dad had a mild stroke and is undergoing rehabilitation. He is working hard to kick and lift his legs, but he still feels that his leg strength is not improving. What can we do to help him stand up and walk? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and suggestions: 1. After a stroke, the recovery of limbs relies on the coordinated movement of the entire muscle group, known as the synergistic pattern, rather than the recovery of individual muscles. 2. In stroke r...[Read More] Improving Leg Strength After a Mild Stroke: Rehabilitation Tips
Best Rehabilitation Options for Stroke Recovery in Kaohsiung
Stroke rehabilitation Hello. My colleague's brother had a mild stroke and is currently in a general ward. The doctors at the hospital have requested that he be transferred to a private room; otherwise, he won't be able to schedule rehabilitation therapy with a therapist...
Dr. Xu Zhenrong Reply:
Stroke is one of the top ten causes of death in Taiwan and a significant cause of disability. Patients who experience a mild stroke can receive rehabilitation in the hospital or outpatient rehabilitation after discharge. Rehabilitation services include physical therapy (PT) and o...[Read More] Best Rehabilitation Options for Stroke Recovery in Kaohsiung
How to Hire a Foreign Caregiver for Stroke Rehabilitation in Taiwan
Application for Foreign Caregivers My father had a stroke six months ago, and his mobility has improved very little. I would like to hire a foreign caregiver, but I’ve heard it can be difficult. Should I seek assistance from an agency? What are the procedures for this?
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
Hello Sir: Here are the responses to your questions and suggestions as follows: 1. The application for foreign caregivers generally depends on the patient's diagnosis, particularly if there are significant illnesses or sequelae that affect daily living functions. 2. The B...[Read More] How to Hire a Foreign Caregiver for Stroke Rehabilitation in Taiwan
Understanding Swelling and Pain in Post-Stroke Upper Limb Rehabilitation
Upper limb swelling and pain? Hello Director Chen: My grandfather had a stroke over a month ago, resulting in paralysis on the right side. Now his right upper limb is often swollen and painful. He is currently undergoing rehabilitation in the hospital, but the therapist and the p...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and suggestions regarding your question: 1. Possible explanations are as follows: 1. Sympathetic nerve dysfunction, which can occur after a stroke, burn, or significant trauma, leading to either excessive or insufficien...[Read More] Understanding Swelling and Pain in Post-Stroke Upper Limb Rehabilitation
Managing Swallowing Difficulties After Stroke: Expert Advice
Dysphagia Director Chen: My uncle had a stroke six months ago, and he still has difficulty swallowing, often choking, and his speech is somewhat unclear. How should we address this? Thank you.
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and suggestions: 1. You may visit a rehabilitation department for speech therapy, where the therapist will teach you swallowing techniques and pronunciation exercises. 2. At home, you can use medical gauze to wrap ice cu...[Read More] Managing Swallowing Difficulties After Stroke: Expert Advice
Can Neck Stretching Be Safe After Heat Stroke Symptoms?
Heat stroke Hello Director Chen! Last Thursday, I experienced heatstroke, and I have a sharp pain near my left ear and a deep purple bruise on my neck. In this situation, is it still advisable to perform neck stretching exercises during rehabilitation therapy? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
Hello: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and recommendations: 1. For now, electrical therapy is sufficient; if cervical traction is needed, the pulling force should be reduced to less than 1-2 kg after the acute phase. 2. During the acute phase of muscle inflammat...[Read More] Can Neck Stretching Be Safe After Heat Stroke Symptoms?
Rehabilitation Options for Stroke Patients with Cerebral Palsy Symptoms
Stroke patients Hello Director Chen: My father has had two strokes over the past seven years, and now he walks as if he has cerebral palsy, with his arms and legs flailing. He does not use a cane and I am very worried about him having an accident. Can such a patient undergo rehab...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. Rehabilitation should be conducted by a rehabilitation specialist, and it is advisable to correct gait patterns. 2. Use a cane; do not avoid using it out of concern for appearance, as maintaining a proper gait is more important for safety and preventing falls, thereby avoiding...[Read More] Rehabilitation Options for Stroke Patients with Cerebral Palsy Symptoms
Understanding Stroke Rehabilitation: Addressing Communication Challenges
Stroke rehabilitation Hello, Director Chen! My father is 72 years old and has been in declining health since undergoing gastric surgery three years ago. He had a stroke a year ago and has been receiving rehabilitation therapy daily. He seems to be irritable, speaks less, and some...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
Hello: Regarding your inquiry, I would like to provide some explanations and suggestions: 1. A stroke affecting the frontal lobe of the brain often leads to emotional changes; if the language center is affected, it can result in aphasia, which may manifest as difficulty in unders...[Read More] Understanding Stroke Rehabilitation: Addressing Communication Challenges
Should Stroke Patients Use Canes? Expert Advice on Rehabilitation
Stroke Hello, Director: My father had a sudden stroke two months ago and was immediately sent for rehabilitation. In recent days, he has been able to walk somewhat unsteadily, but he refuses to use a cane, believing that relying on it will hinder his progress. He says we are not ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. Walking with a cane has its benefits: (1) increased safety, reducing the risk of falls. (2) improved gait. (3) decreased spasticity. 2. If a patient experiences limb spasticity that does not worsen with walking and has a good gait, then consideration can be given to walking wi...[Read More] Should Stroke Patients Use Canes? Expert Advice on Rehabilitation
Can Mild Stroke Be Rehabilitated? Expert Insights for Caregivers
Mild stroke? Hello, Doctor! My mother is 63 years old and her health check-up report was very good! However, she seems to have suddenly experienced a mild stroke, with issues in one hand and one foot. Can she undergo rehabilitation? Thank you, Doctor!
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. The first six months after a stroke are typically considered the golden period for recovery, during which recovery is generally faster. 2. Once vital signs are stable (such as blood pressure, respiration, pulse, and temperature) and there are no complications or infections, r...[Read More] Can Mild Stroke Be Rehabilitated? Expert Insights for Caregivers
Understanding Occasional Sounds in the Back of the Head: Should You Worry?
Issues with the occipital region? Hello, Doctor: My blood pressure is normal, and I have always been healthy. However, in the past six months, I occasionally hear a clear "pop" sound in the back of my head when I look up or stand up, and sometimes it feels a bit startli...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. The sound may be from tendons or ligaments and is not necessarily a precursor to a stroke. 2. Strokes often do not have clear warning signs; it is important to monitor blood pressure, blood lipids, and cholesterol levels. Sudden loss of vision is a significant warning sign of ...[Read More] Understanding Occasional Sounds in the Back of the Head: Should You Worry?
Stroke Rehabilitation for Bedridden Patients: Options and Air Mattress Benefits
Stroke bed rest My grandfather has been bedridden for five years after a stroke. How can he undergo rehabilitation? Is it possible to apply for an air mattress?
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. You can obtain educational pamphlets from the rehabilitation department, which provide guidance on various rehabilitation exercises, especially positioning and joint mobility. 2. Patients who are bedridden for an extended period should be frequently repositioned and have the...[Read More] Stroke Rehabilitation for Bedridden Patients: Options and Air Mattress Benefits
Swimming with Herniated Discs: Safe Practices and Precautions
Herniated disc Hello Director Chen! Regarding the issue of herniated discs, may I ask if swimming is permissible in addition to rehabilitation? If so, which swimming styles should be avoided? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. Cervical disc herniation; swimming is a beneficial exercise, and soaking in warm water in a spa can also be helpful. 2. Breaststroke is recommended, as freestyle requires body rotation, which may not be suitable. 3. Lumbar traction can be beneficial.[Read More] Swimming with Herniated Discs: Safe Practices and Precautions
Revolutionizing Rehabilitation: The Benefits of Horse Riding Machines
Horse riding machine Hello Director Chen! According to a report by Central News Agency on November 17, Miaoli Daqian Hospital has introduced a horseback riding simulator as a rehabilitation tool, specifically targeting patients with spinal injuries, strokes, or autism, creating a...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. The purpose of the horse riding machine is to train balance and strengthen the muscles of the lower back; however, its effectiveness for spinal injuries and stroke has not yet been confirmed. 2. Our hospital currently has no plans to purchase this equipment. 3. Autism and deve...[Read More] Revolutionizing Rehabilitation: The Benefits of Horse Riding Machines
Understanding Foot Tendon Inflammation: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns
Achilles tendonitis The patient is a 35-year-old male who experiences foot pain severe enough to prevent walking. This pain typically occurs a few days after consuming beer. He consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner who diagnosed him with tendonitis in the foot, bu...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. It may be gouty arthritis (not a stroke); a blood test to check uric acid levels can confirm this. Gout attacks can cause swelling and make it difficult to walk. 2. Limit alcohol consumption, as it is detrimental to uric acid excretion. 3. If the diagnosis is confirmed, ur...[Read More] Understanding Foot Tendon Inflammation: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns
Understanding Sudden Limb Numbness: Is It a Stroke?
Numbness in the hands and feet? Hello Director Chen! I consulted you about the same issue last Sunday (10/8), but I haven't received a response yet. I'm not sure if my email got lost. I apologize for that! I really want to know your expert opinion, so I'm sending i...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
(1) It may be due to poor circulation; wearing socks and long sleeves while sleeping, keeping warm, and soaking your feet before bed can help. (2) Calcium deficiency can also worsen the condition; drinking warm milk before bed may be beneficial. (3) Nerve root compression in the ...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Limb Numbness: Is It a Stroke?
Rehabilitation Options for Patients with Multiple Strokes and Emotional Challenges
Rehabilitation after multiple strokes? Hello, Director Chen! My father has suffered multiple strokes and is now experiencing limb spasticity, frequent delirium, difficulty concentrating, and even a reversal of his day-night cycle. He is also feeling depressed and has had several ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. You can go to the rehabilitation department for heat therapy, stretching exercises, and balance exercises. Physical and occupational therapy can improve limb conditions. 2. If there is a state of delirium, you can consult a psychiatrist; medication can help improve this cond...[Read More] Rehabilitation Options for Patients with Multiple Strokes and Emotional Challenges
Understanding Intermittent Claudication: Is It Joint Degeneration or Stroke?
Suspected foot stroke? Hello Director Chen! I am experiencing intermittent claudication, where I feel leg pain after walking about 100 to 200 meters and need to rest. Sometimes, my leg cramps suddenly and wakes me up in pain. Although massaging helps slightly, the soreness persis...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. The most common cause is spinal stenosis compressing the sciatic nerve, followed by poor circulation in the legs. The term "leg stroke" refers to vascular occlusion, which is more dangerous but has a lower incidence. 2. Spinal stenosis can be diagnosed using X-rays o...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Claudication: Is It Joint Degeneration or Stroke?
Understanding Stroke Rehabilitation: Estrogen's Role in Recovery
Stroke Hello Director Chen, My father is 77 years old and takes his antihypertensive medication regularly to control his high blood pressure. However, two weeks ago, he experienced a mild stroke, resulting in slight drooping of the right side of his face and mouth. I recall a re...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
(1) Currently, hospitals in Taiwan primarily use thrombolytic agents for dissolving blood clots, which must be accompanied by close monitoring equipment, and they are only suitable for embolic strokes. (2) I have heard about using estrogen to treat strokes; please consult a medic...[Read More] Understanding Stroke Rehabilitation: Estrogen's Role in Recovery