Life is Good, I Survived My Stroke: A Short Autobiographical Story
The Day Everything Changed was a relatively typical weekend day, Saturday, November 8, 2008, I had finished my daily routine around the house; cleaning the kitchen after breakfast, emptying the de-humidifiers, and all the other things you do on weekends because you don’t have time during the week. Then I went fly fishing in the Farmington River; after fishing the whole morning I decided to go home and practice guitar, this is my favorite pastime and I played as often as possible! Mornings before work, after work, after dinner, and weekends. So. this day being no different, I took a shower and went into the basement to practice guitar; the basement isn’t exactly a man-cave but it’s well-suited to practicing the guitar being finished with a couch, two desks, built into the wall, a wood stove, and a carpeted floor very cozy and relaxing. After getting out my old, trusty Martin HD28 I began practicing.
I had been playing guitar for several years but only got serious in 2006. And, I was finally getting good at finger-style guitar. After my warmup, I picked out my next challenge and went to work on it. I worked on this piece all afternoon. When you have a passion for something you usually tend to overdo it, which I did because I started to get a neck ache on my right side, therefore, I decided to call it quits and go upstairs to eat dinner with my great wife Mary. I’m not just saying that because I know she will proofread this. She is great! You’ll find out why later.
When we finished dinner, we decided to watch TV. Being tired, I got the couch to lie down on. I still had a neck ache. Usually, after fishing I can get one but it will eventually go away this one didn’t. Being a macho man like so many men are, I thought I’d take a couple of Tylenol and be done with it. This didn’t help and not too long after I got this perfectly round black spot about the size of a silver dollar in my lower right-side field of vision. At this point, I didn’t think I was having a stroke because I had no F.A.S.T. symptoms F.A.S.T. stands for Facial droop, Arm weakness, Slurred speech, and Time of reaction. I learned a big lesson here, even if you don’t have a F.A.S.T. symptom be concerned with any abnormal behavior. It was my neck pain (I had no arm weakness) and the black spot. If I had been more concerned about an abnormality, I probably would have been able to get to the hospital sooner and had the medication tPA which is “tissue plasminogen activator” (tPA) a drug that can dissolve blood clots that cause ischemic strokes. By the way, they have changed F.A.S.T. to F.A.S.T.E.R. adding Eyes and Reaction. Oh, well! Some things are just meant to be.
Consequently, though, because I didn’t think I was having a stroke but did have an abnormality, Mary and I decided we should go to the ER and have the black spot checked out. While in the ER sitting in a chair getting checked in my face drooped and I fell sideways. Luckily, a nurse was walking by and noticed this. She immediately said to get this man to a bed STAT. I don’t know if she said that but that’s what they say on the TV shows; anyway, I got a bed quickly. As I lay there thinking, WOW,
I ‘m having a stroke! So, I started to go through a mental checklist. The head moves check eyes blink check no slurring check arms strong check move fingers and form guitar chords check (alright I’m golden). I can’t remember if I still had the spot and I said It was only a TIA, (Transient Ischemic Attack, or a mini-stroke). So, there I was dumb and happy thinking I was out of the woods! Little did I know the worst was yet to come. Even a TIA can take a lot out of you so, I became tired and fell asleep. And low-and-behold I had the big one about midnight. By the way, the Big One almost took my life. And because it didn’t “Life is Good, I Survived my stroke”.
. After the Big One, sometime in the morning of November 9, 2008, I woke up in the ICU. This is a very scary and lonely place especially until you find out nurses and orderlies are there quietly working in the background to keep you alive and safe. This is great but it’s also when for me reality set in. Since I had the stroke while I was sleeping when I woke up in the ICU, I had no idea I had a second stroke! I thought I had just suffered the TIA.
At the hospital, doctors confirmed that I had suffered a carotid dissection a type of ischemic stroke, that caused a blockage cutting off blood flow to part of my brain. To clarify things, what started all of this was a Carotid dissection a tear in the lining of the carotid artery. Doctors don’t know why this happens, but I think I do. But remember, I am not a doctor. I think it was caused by straining too hard doing exercises with too much weight for me to handle because after exercising at work walking back to my desk, I got dizzy and almost fell. Mr. Macho again chalked it up to a good workout. What an idiot I am!
Recovery from a stroke is a multifaceted journey that varies greatly depending on the individual, the severity of the stroke, and the areas of the brain affected. Here is a general outline of what the road to recovery will involve:
Acute Care accounts for the first few days or weeks in our journey, depending on the survivors’ condition. I was at Gaylord for a month but was lucky enough to be able to go home for Thanksgiving for the day, but then I went right back to continue with my care. I still needed assessments, and medical evaluations by professionals who assess the extent of the stroke, including imaging tests (CT or MRI scans). Consequently, I am very familiar with CT and MRI equipment. After all the assessments; treatments were prescribed. Treatments may include medications to dissolve clots, control blood pressure, and prevent future strokes. Some patients may require surgery
Early Rehabilitation for the first few weeks is monitored by a multidisciplinary team which consists of neurologists, physical therapists, speech therapists, and social workers. Rehabilitation may begin at the hospital, a specialized rehab facility, or at home but in my case, it started in the hospital within the first few days. Gaylord likes to put you on the bus and get you moving! Focus Areas were basic mobility, self-care skills (e.g., bathing, dressing), and swallowing/speech therapy if necessary; in my case I was lucky and my communication skills were intact. I want to make an important point here and it is just my opinion but might be helpful to other survivors in my situation. As I mentioned earlier, I was an avid fly fisherman, a pool player, and most importantly a guitarist. All bilateral endeavors! If I knew then what I know now I would ask if I could concentrate on working on my hand but, when you are strong enough, they stress walking and exiting from a car. I’m not saying these things aren’t important because they are, they’re very important, however, they are much easier to learn than getting back fine motor skills. The sooner you start working on fine motor skills the more likely you are to recover these skills.
But don’t be discouraged, fine motor skills can always improve thanks to an awesome ability of the brain called plasticity, that is, the brain’s ability to find new pathways for functionality that has been lost due to the loss of the normal pathway. As an example, a person who is blind can re-route the pathway used by sight to become the new pathway for the sense of touch. Usually, this is accomplished by learning the art of braille as the new way to read. However, plasticity requires extreme focus and many repetitions to regain the lost functionality or learn a new skill. Therefore, this means there are no plateaus no matter how long it’s been since your stroke. The more you want something and the harder you work the more you’ll get back. Hence the term Stroke Warrior!
Subacute Care covers the next few months of our journey. This will include continued Rehabilitation; Physical and occupational therapy, exercises to improve strength, coordination, balance, and mobility, and fine motor skills. Occupational Techniques to perform daily activities, and learn the use of adaptive equipment. And Speech Therapy exercises and strategies to improve communication, cognition, and swallowing.
Also, supportive measures are required for a successful recovery outcome including Emotional Support: Counseling or support groups to address emotional and psychological impacts and family Involvement: Education and training for family members to assist in the care and support of the stroke survivor.
Recovery from a stroke is a long-term process that requires a lot of hard work, patience, persistence, and support from healthcare professionals, family, and friends. While some individuals may achieve significant recovery, others might have lasting disabilities. The goal is to maximize independence and quality of life.
Many or all of the following practices are extremely helpful in positive outcomes in long-term recovery:
1 – On-going, long-term Rehabilitation:
– Outpatient Therapy: Continued physical, occupational, and speech therapy on an outpatient basis.
– Home Exercises: Personalized exercise programs to maintain and improve function. Usually prescribed by outpatient services
- Lifestyle Adjustments:
– Diet and Exercise: Adopting a healthy diet and regular physical activity to prevent future strokes.
– Medication Management: Adhering to prescribed medications to manage risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes.
- Adaptation and Independence:
– Assistive Devices: Use of tools and technologies to aid in daily living. But don’t let the assistive devices prevent you from working to regain functionality. A disability doesn’t necessarily have to be a lifetime thing. With plasticity and hard work, you can make progress. Don’t give up!
– Home Modifications: Making changes to the living environment to enhance safety and accessibility.
- Monitoring and Follow-Up:
– Regular Check-Ups: Continuous monitoring by healthcare professionals to track progress and adjust treatments as necessary.
– Secondary Prevention: Ongoing efforts to reduce the risk of subsequent strokes, including lifestyle modifications and medical interventions.
- Emotional and Psychological Recovery
– Mental Health Support: Counseling or therapy to cope with depression, anxiety, or other emotional challenges.
– Community and Social Engagement: Reconnecting with social activities, hobbies, and community involvement to improve quality of life. This is important. Also, if you have nothing to reconnect with make sure you make new contacts. You should join a stroke support group, and find a social group in your age bracket to start new relationships either friendly or who knows what might happen. But always remember to surround yourself with positive people. You’ve been through enough negativity. You owe it to yourself to be happy again. As my brother-in-law used to say “Don’t let the turkeys get you down”.
Key Factors Influencing Recovery
- Severity and Location of Stroke: Strokes affecting larger areas or critical regions of the brain may result in more significant impairments.
- Age and Overall Health: Younger individuals and those in better overall health generally have better recovery prospects.
- Timeliness of Treatment: Quick medical intervention can limit brain damage and improve outcomes.
- Rehabilitation Intensity: Active participation in rehabilitation activities often leads to better recovery outcomes.
Recovery from a stroke is a long-term process that requires patience, persistence, and support from healthcare professionals, family, and friends. While some individuals may achieve significant recovery, others might have lasting disabilities. The goal is to maximize independence and quality of life.
. Embracing the New Normal
Returning home can be both joyous and daunting. It’s great to be home but you have to adapt your daily routines. We installed grab bars in the bathroom, rearranged furniture and put throw rugs away to create open pathways, and learned to live with a new rhythm that is, take the metronome down a few notches. I can’t move as quickly, and smoothly as I once did. There were days of frustration, depression, and tears, for me; but My wife Mary helped me face them; Mary is a very pragmatic person having been a school psychologist all her life she knew how to deal with children and at times that would be me. Although at other times she would bring me back to reality and tell me to “Suck it up” or Get over it” which isn’t bad advice.
Nutrition and Lifestyle Changes
A crucial part of my recovery involved overhauling my diet and lifestyle. Mary started working on this and helped me develop a heart-healthy meal plan. Fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains became staples. I also began a tailored exercise program, focusing on gentle activities that strengthened my body without overexertion. Remember to rest in between sets of exercises so that you don’t over-work yourself and open things up to injury. Give your body a chance to adapt to exercising, especially if you’re just starting or getting back to it after a break.
Mental and Emotional Well-being
The emotional toll of my stroke was profound. There were days when depression and anxiety felt insurmountable. However, I sought help, attending therapy sessions and joining a support group for stroke survivors. Mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga became part of my routine, helping me manage stress and find peace amidst the chaos.
Setting Goals and Finding Purpose
Setting small, achievable goals gave me a sense of purpose and achievement. At first, it was standing unassisted, then walking to the mailbox. Each milestone, no matter how small, was a victory.
Navigating Healthcare and Insurance
Navigating the healthcare system can be a challenge. Many survivors spend countless hours on the phone with insurance companies, trying to understand their coverage and benefits. You have to learn how to advocate for yourself, ensuring you receive the best possible care and support. If you’re not getting what you want keep pushing. Even if you don’t have a Medicare Plus Plan. If it’s additional rehabilitation you need that can’t be completed in the Medicare half-hour slot keep bugging them relentlessly but before writing that letter to Medicare make a list of all the things you will gain as a result of the additional rehab exercise time. Like being able to use two hands better and then be able to do your passion, cooking or whatever it is you love to do. Quality of life is what we’re striving for here.
Celebrating Milestones and Looking Forward
Every small achievement should be celebrated. For example: my first steps without a walker, the day I could open my hand a quarter inch more, and the day I took my special driving test and could drive again. These moments are reminders of how far I have come. Now, I look forward with hope, embracing the future with a renewed sense of gratitude and determination.
Reflecting on this journey so far, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the support of my family, friends, and medical team. Surviving a stroke has been the most challenging experience of my life, but it has also been profoundly transformative. I have learned to appreciate the simple joys in life and to celebrate resilience in all its forms. I know in most writings on the stroke survivor journey you probably read that a lot but it’s true Life is good, I Survived my Stroke and I am here to tell my story.
So, given everything above about the long-term recovery in a stroke survivor journey. What’s it really like? Well, all I can do is tell you about my experience so far. Some of it is bad and some is good really. The bad stuff is mostly in the beginning and the good is mostly up until now. That’s 2008 to 2024, 16 years in November. I must be honest, though both the good and the bad come and go and the bad comes when I get lazy. And I don’t mean physically I’m talking about mentally. Sometimes, I will hear a song I used to play or wanted to play, and being a melancholy person I will go with it getting myself all melancholic. That’s the bad, lazy part. I didn’t try to fight it and I should have thought about something good, positive. Like all the good songs I did play and hopefully will play again well, maybe the easy ones, but that’s a start! I also try to say “Giving up is not an option!”. Just like plasticity and it’s a requirement of many, many repetitions. The more you repeat something it will become your reality. But be careful, if you keep thinking negatively then that becomes your reality.
There are two things I’ve learned over the years “Plasticity Works” and “Depression is your worst Enemy”. I have an anecdote about this which is sad but true. It was when I was in the subacute period of rehabilitation. I was doing outpatient occupational rehab for my hand. I‘m not really looking for the proverbial silver bullet but I do find some new technologies that in my mind have great promise. One of those was The Saeboflex. This is an orthotic glove that is used to strengthen the hand and initiate Plasticity. The only thing wrong with this is that you have to use it a lot with high repetitions and sets.
Now I have a story to tell you about the Saeboflex that you may or may not believe, the choice is yours but believe me, it is true. Early in the subacute phase of my journey I was feeling pretty good I was doing outpatient therapy at Gaylord Hospital which made me feel good to know I was doing something to make my situation better. I was surfing the web for new exercises and technology for the hand, by the way, I am obsessed with my hand. I do this often even to this day. At the time, I was not feeling depressed, so I decided to take the bull by the horns and give it 110% of my effort and focus. So, I got the device, had it fitted at Gaylord, and dove into the exercises prescribed by Saebo with a passion. You can find exercise examples on the Saebo website. Again, The Saeboflex is a dynamic hand splint for overcoming moderate-to-severe spasticity that helps you grab objects again after a stroke or traumatic brain injury. I started my regimen around the 1st of May in 2009 and finished around the 1st part of June.
Once I got familiar with the device and got up to speed on the reps/set level I wanted. I worked my way up to this level over days and didn’t just pick arbitrary numbers. I pushed myself to where I thought I could maintain the level of effort. Being an overachiever, I try to really challenge myself and this worked out to be 100 reps x 10 times per day. That took a few hours to accomplish each day. Since I listened to music and the exercises were varied it wasn’t as boring as it sounds once you get into it with focus it goes by pretty quickly. And now comes the unbelievable part. I was able to do this for 30 days straight for a total of 30,000 transfers of the balls. Over this period my spasticity slowly receded to the point where I was opening my hand farther and farther. In the end, I was typing again albeit very slowly, but it was a great achievement. “Plasticity works”! Now, I’m not trying to discourage anyone by this number but this is what I could do so I did it and it worked. Since everyone’s stroke is different it might not take you as long to get results. The only reason I like to brag about this number is to show survivors that great things can be accomplished by ordinary people! It just takes focus, persistence, and consistency.
I recommend the Saboflex to anyone with moderate to severe spasticity. By the way, I do not get any compensation from this endorsement. I recommend it because I tried it, I like it, and it works.
Unfortunately, due to a severe depression that crept up on me “Depression is your worst Enemy”; due to a seizure, caused by a medication prescribed by my psychiatrist at the time. Needless to say, I changed my psychiatrist after the deep dive into a depression that was caused by a series of seizures for about three weeks. I didn’t have all the symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) as severe depression as it is clinically known, but the ones I had were pretty bad. Sleeping all the time. I even convinced myself I was meditating which I did but then I’d fall asleep! I stopped surfing for information on Youtube about my past pleasures and new technologies for stroke rehabilitation since they made me happy but the happiness was gone. I felt guilty all the time about the stroke being my fault, which it wasn’t. Here are some facts I have found about depression and MDD:
Depression is Your Worst Enemy – Brief Description of Depression
Depression is a common and serious mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed. It affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities such as sleeping, eating, or working. Symptoms can include fatigue, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide. Depression is more than just a bout of the blues; it is a long-term condition that typically requires treatment such as psychotherapy, medication, or lifestyle changes to manage and improve.
### Brief Description of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a severe mental health condition characterized by persistent and intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in almost all activities. It significantly impairs daily functioning, affecting sleep, appetite, energy levels, concentration, and self-esteem. Symptoms include chronic fatigue, changes in weight, insomnia or excessive sleeping, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. MDD typically requires a comprehensive treatment approach, including psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, to manage and alleviate symptoms.
Luckily, I recognized my condition early and sought help although my first choice of a psychiatrist wasn’t ideal, I did come up with a great second choice, though. I have had the same psychiatrist for many years now and ever since he assessed my condition and prescribed Cymbalta with Abilify as a kicker (almost like a shot and a beer). I have gotten back to being my old self. Also, after trying to titrate myself off of Cymbalta I started slipping back into the depression so I titrated back up to the magic dose and frequency. Bingo the old John came back and to be honest I will probably be on these meds for a long time. Therefore, I recommend that all stroke survivors seek treatment for depression immediately because it is essential for stroke survivors to enhance their recovery, improve their quality of life, and reduce the risk of further health complications. By addressing depression, survivors can achieve better physical, emotional, and cognitive outcomes, leading to a more complete and fulfilling recovery journey.
Long-term stroke recovery can be a complex process with both positive and challenging aspects. Here are some of the ups and downs commonly experienced during long-term stroke recovery:
Over time I have experienced significant improvements in physical, cognitive, and emotional functions. With time, and rehabilitation I have learned to walk better without the use of any aids, and the big one, I passed my Easter Seals driving test and I started driving again although, for the most part, I limit myself to 80 miles a trip usually 40 out and 40 back. Also, I taught myself how to fly fish one-handed. My next challenge is to learn to play the guitar again!
Since I Participate in physical and occupational therapy, I am leading a more independent life with improved quality. And because I have a better attitude, I can fend off minor setbacks and face them head-on.
I have a strong support system from family, friends, and support groups that provide me with emotional encouragement and practical help. In particular, my wife Mary has been a major part of my support system both in the beginning and now she has been by my side helping and encouraging me to do better. Although sometimes she can be pretty crass about it; helping me with “Get over it! And “Suck it up which I need now and then.
Ever since the beginning of my journey, I have been an avid surfer in search of Innovations in medical technology and rehabilitation techniques that can enhance recovery outcomes. That’s how I found the Saboeflex mentioned above.
– Overcoming the challenges of stroke recovery by using new technology and exercise protocols can lead to increased resilience, adaptability, and a sense of accomplishment.
- **Community Resources**:
Because of my fantastic support system, family, friends, and my physiatrist; access to community resources was not necessary, such as stroke clubs and rehabilitation centers, however, those of you who do not have a good support system can benefit from ongoing support and opportunities for social interaction to surround themselves with positive people. Remember, only picking positive friends don’t have anything to do with negative people or thoughts; engagement in this type of activity can be very harmful, because you are what you think. If you think negatively that’s who you will become. Any time you catch yourself going negative try to switch to a positive thought or pleasurable memory. You are what you think!
Downs (Challenges):
Physical Limitations**:
I still have persistent physical impairments, such as weakness, paralysis, and coordination problems, and these, limit my mobility and independence. My mobility is also exacerbated by a hip replacement on my weak left side. And on top of that, I have a knee problem that dates back to high school football. Regardless of this I still push on; I continue to do rehabilitation, as a matter of fact I will start rehab for my hip soon and will then go to war with my knee.
Cognitive and Emotional Issues**:
I have been lucky in that I have not faced any long-term cognitive challenges, including memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and emotional issues other than depression and anxiety which I explained earlier.
Chronic fatigue or communication difficulties are not an issue for me.
As is the case with everyone I suppose the cost of medical care, rehabilitation, and assistive devices can be a significant financial burden. Especially with new technology.
Adjusting to a new lifestyle and accepting changes in abilities can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. But due to my depression meds I have been able to quell these side effects.
Risk of Recurrence**:
Personally, I do not fear the risk of another stroke but it can be a constant concern for survivors and their families. The reason you should not fear it is because it only gets in the way of your positivity remember, you are what you think you are and if you worry too much, you’ll become a chronic worrier! Not good. Besides, you’re now armed with the new mnemonic – F. A. S. T. E. R. face, arm speech, time, eyes, and reaction time. Get to the hospital to take advantage of tPA; see third paragraph for definition
Social Isolation**:
– Physical and communication limitations can lead to social isolation and reduced participation in previously enjoyed activities.
Thankfully there are some strategies to Cope with the Downs:
Consistent Therapy
– Regular participation in physical, occupational, or speech therapy tailored to individual needs by your therapist.
Mental Health Support
– Access to counseling, support groups, and mental health services to address emotional challenges. Medication is not a taboo. If you need them take them consistently because “Depression is your worst Enemy”.
Lifestyle Changes
– Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including proper diet, exercise, and managing risk factors like hypertension and diabetes.
Assistive Devices
– Using mobility aids, communication devices, and other assistive technologies to enhance independence.
Education and Awareness
– Staying informed about stroke, its effects, and the latest advancements in treatment and rehabilitation.
Building a Support Network
– Engaging with family, friends, and support groups to create a robust support system.
Every stroke survivor’s journey is unique, and recovery can vary widely depending on the severity of the stroke, the effectiveness of rehabilitation, and individual resilience.
Since this book is a lot about rehabilitation. I want to point out some new technology products that I have come across in my periodic stroke solutions surfing on the net.
The first is the Saeboflex
Next is biofeedback systems
Biofeedback systems have become an integral part of stroke rehabilitation, offering patients real-time feedback to improve their motor functions. Here are some of the best biofeedback stroke rehab systems I have looked at:
- Neofect Smart Glove**: This system uses a smart glove equipped with sensors to provide real-time feedback on hand movements. It includes interactive games and exercises that help patients improve their hand and arm functions.
- Saebo – SaeboVR is a virtual rehabilitation system that uses biofeedback to assist stroke survivors in practicing functional tasks. It provides virtual reality scenarios that mimic real-life activities, helping patients regain their motor skills in an engaging way.
- RehaCom – RehaCom is a cognitive rehabilitation system that includes biofeedback modules to help patients with motor recovery. It offers a range of exercises designed to improve cognitive and motor functions simultaneously.
- Bioness Integrated Therapy System (BITS)**: BITS combines visual, cognitive, motor, and balance exercises with real-time biofeedback. It is used to improve upper extremity motor control, coordination, and cognitive abilities.
5.Hocoma Armeo The Armeo system is a robotic exoskeleton that provides arm and hand therapy with real-time biofeedback. It supports intensive and repetitive training, crucial for stroke recovery.
6.MyoCycle**: MyoCycle uses functional electrical stimulation (FES) combined with biofeedback to help stroke patients regain muscle strength and control in their legs. It is particularly effective for improving lower extremity function.
- 7. Interactive Motion Technologies (IMT) InMotion ARM**: This robotic system provides arm therapy with biofeedback, helping stroke patients improve their motor control and strength through guided and repetitive movements.
8.Myomo: Myomo PRO is a virtual reality-based rehabilitation system that provides biofeedback for upper limb and trunk movements. It offers a range of exercises tailored to the patient’s rehabilitation needs.
9.MindMotion PRO: MindMotion PRO is a virtual reality-based rehabilitation system that provides biofeedback for upper limb and trunk movements. It offers a range of exercises tailored to the patient’s rehabilitation needs.
These systems leverage the power of biofeedback to provide stroke patients with immediate information about their performance, enabling them to adjust their movements and improve their motor skills more effectively.
A lot of the systems above s are only available in certain areas; check in your area for access.
next is Vivistim
The Vivistim System typically involves the following key components and processes:
1.Implantation – The system involves a surgically implanted neurostimulator device, usually placed beneath the collarbone. The neurostimulator is connected to leads (thin wires) that are threaded through the body to specific locations in the brain.
2.Neurostimulation – Once implanted, the Vivistim System delivers electrical stimulation to targeted areas of the brain. The stimulation is intended to modulate neural activity and promote neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections.
3.Rehabilitation Tasks -The neurostimulation is often paired with specific rehabilitation tasks or exercises. This combination of stimulation and task-specific training is believed to enhance the brain’s capacity for recovery and improve functional outcomes in individuals recovering from stroke-related impairments.
4.Customization – The system is designed to be customizable, with the ability to adjust stimulation parameters based on the individual’s needs and progress. This customization allows healthcare professionals to tailor the therapy to the specific requirements of each patient.
The goal of Vivistim therapy is to aid in the rehabilitation of individuals who have experienced a stroke by promoting neural plasticity and facilitating the relearning of motor skills. It is typically used in conjunction with traditional physical therapy and rehabilitation programs.