Post-Stroke in : Functional Independence Measure · 490

Hemiparesis, spasticity, gait and speech changes Months to years, most gains in first 3–6 months Physical, occupational, and speech therapy New stroke symptoms (FAST warning signs) A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, either by a blockage (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke), depriving brain tissue of oxygen and causing damage that can affect movement, sensation, speech, cognition, or a combination of these functions depending on the brain area involved.

Rehabilitation after stroke relies heavily on neuroplasticity — the brain's capacity to reorganize and form new connections — to relearn movement patterns and compensate for damaged areas. The most rapid gains are typically seen in the first three to six months, though meaningful improvement can continue well beyond this window with continued, structured practice.

Because stroke can affect so many different functions depending on its location and severity, rehabilitation is highly individualized and typically involves a multidisciplinary team including physical, occupational, and speech therapists. This page focuses on the physical rehabilitation dimension — anatomy and mechanisms, common physical effects, assessment, and general exercise and recovery patterns.