Docs stress on importance of post-stroke rehabilitation
CHENNAI: While stroke remains a common occurrence even among the relatively younger section of the population, many patients are unaware of the right treatment that will help protect the quality of life, mobility and independence, said neurosurgeons here.
Recently, a 35-year-old man from the city suffered an 18-level stroke as per the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, which is categorised a moderate to severe stroke. He was treated for an Ischemic stroke through three multi-disciplinary procedures at Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Vanagaram. The patient was admitted in June and has made a complete recovery.
Elaborating on the treatment process, doctors said that upon assessing the patient Ramkumar’s condition, thrombolysis, where a clot bursting medication is injected through the veins, was conducted. This was followed with a mechanical thrombectomy, which is the mechanical removal of a clot, and then an emergency decompressive craniectomy.
The patient is now undergoing neurorehabilitation, said the doctors who added that many patients are unaware of the treatment that will help protect their quality of life, mobility, and independence. Therapy helps assist the patient’s physical and cognitive functions in the long-term and relearn skills they may have lost.
“Awareness in the community, prompt diagnosis, acute management, post-acute care rehabilitation are the cornerstones in achieving good results in stroke management. Post-stroke rehabilitation is a necessity for ensuring that patients can live decent lives. Many patients only opt for physiotherapy, and do not opt for vocational rehabilitation and the appropriate medical support to ensure a better standard of living,” said Dr Siddhartha Ghosh, Senior Neurosurgeon, Apollo Hospitals.
Doctors also recommend stroke support groups for survivors and family members to help boost psychological and emotional recovery and to receive affirmation and information from fellow peers. The cornerstone of stroke management, which includes proper diet, fitness, and lifestyle practices are key in recovery as well, said doctors.