Stroke (CVA)

Plain-language definition

Leading cause of acquired disability in adults. Intensive rehabilitation to recover motor function, balance and independence.

Signs and points requiring attention

• Hemiplegia: paralysis or muscle weakness affecting one side of the body (arm, leg, face), resulting from damage to the motor cortex or motor pathways. Intensity varies from mild weakness to complete paralysis requiring adapted rehabilitation.
• Balance and gait disorders: difficulty maintaining stable posture and moving safely. These disorders significantly increase fall risk and require specific proprioception and coordination work.
• Post-stroke muscle spasticity: abnormal increase in muscle tone causing stiffness and resistance to passive movements. This common complication can limit mobility and cause pain. Early physiotherapy is essential to prevent muscle and joint contractures.
• Sensory, visual and cognitive disorders: disturbances in tactile sensitivity, spatial and body perception (hemispatial neglect), sometimes vision and cognitive functions (attention, memory, language). These deficits impact daily activities and must be integrated into the rehabilitation program.

• Sudden worsening of neurological symptoms (weakness, speech disorders, confusion) that may signal a new stroke: consult emergency services immediately. Every minute counts to limit sequelae.
• Breathing difficulties, unusual shortness of breath or swallowing disorders (coughing during meals, feeling of blockage) requiring rapid medical evaluation to prevent pulmonary complications.
• Repeated falls or loss of consciousness, even brief, justifying a complete medical assessment. Also report any unusual intense headache, fever or behavioral changes.

Assessment and care

• Intensive motor rehabilitation using the Bobath approach and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) techniques, aimed at restoring normal movement patterns and inhibiting post-stroke pathological patterns.
• Gait and balance training through progressive exercises on stable then unstable surfaces, using assistive devices if necessary and working on automatic balance reactions.
• Prevention of muscle and joint contractures related to spasticity through prolonged stretching, joint mobilizations and inhibition postures. Personalized program adapted to patient progress.
• Upper limb functional recovery using the Perfetti approach (cognitive therapeutic exercise), including grasp work, fine motor exercises, mirror therapy and movements oriented toward daily tasks to promote independence.

This information does not replace diagnosis or medical consultation.