Stroke Rehabilitation at Blue Space Physiotherapy

At Blue Space Physiotherapy, we provide stroke rehabilitation that is fully customized to each individual’s unique abilities and recovery goals. Our process begins with a thorough evaluation of sensory, motor, and functional systems across the entire body. Based on this assessment, we work together with the client to set meaningful and time-bound objectives.

We also engage family members and caregivers as part of the rehab journey to ensure ongoing support at home, making it easier to achieve daily functional goals—whether that’s transitioning from a wheelchair to a bed, walking unassisted, or regaining the ability to jog.

Our clinicians combine detailed movement analysis with collaborative care strategies to promote motor recovery and help you move more efficiently and confidently in your daily life.

 

Senior Hiking after Injury- Physiotherapy
Being Active is possible at any age

What happens in a stroke?

Ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke
Ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke

A stroke occurs when the brain is deprived of its blood supply, resulting in the death of brain cells in the affected area. There are two main forms:

  • Ischemic stroke, where blood flow is blocked by a clot or narrowed vessel.

  • Hemorrhagic stroke, where a weakened blood vessel bursts and disrupts normal blood flow.

Both types are serious and can result in physical and cognitive challenges, including fatigue, loss of coordination, sensory changes, and impaired mobility.

Recovery varies depending on the stroke’s location and severity. With the guidance of a physiotherapist trained in neurological care, many individuals can regain strength and independence through a well-designed rehabilitation program.

What does Stroke Physiotherapy involve?

Rehabilitation led by a physiotherapist with expertise in neurological conditions can significantly improve quality of life after a stroke. Here’s how therapy at Blue Space Physiotherapy can support your recovery:

Mobility

Improving how you move in your environment is a key part of recovery. Whether you need help transferring safely between surfaces, learning how to use a walking aid, or improving your walking technique, we offer practical solutions that promote independence.

Education

We empower clients with the knowledge they need to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. Education includes strategies to stay mobile, prevent future strokes, and manage stress and activity levels effectively.

Strength

Strokes frequently result in reduced strength or paralysis on one side of the body. Our therapists evaluate motor function and implement exercises and movement strategies aimed at improving muscular control and coordination.

Endurance

Many stroke survivors experience reduced stamina due to prolonged hospital stays or decreased physical activity. Our team will assess your cardiovascular fitness and craft a safe, progressive program to rebuild endurance while respecting any additional medical considerations.

Balance

Stroke can disrupt the systems that contribute to balance, including muscle strength, vision, and inner ear function. We identify which areas are affected and create targeted interventions to help restore stability and reduce fall risk.

What to expect with Physiotherapy at Blue Space Clinic

Our stroke recovery approach is grounded in evidence-based care. Each patient is evaluated based on their medical history, deficits due to the location of stroke, and overall mobility and sensory restrictions. 

Overall rehab involves participation of patients, and frequently, caregivers, in in-clinic and at-home exercises, sensory and motor re-learning, and overall 

Our physiotherapists create tailored conditioning plans to combat fatigue and help rebuild cardiovascular fitness. These programs are informed by clinical evaluation and client priorities.

For clients experiencing balance issues related to weakness or disrupted sensory input, we provide:

  • Muscle strengthening
  • Improvement of sensory function
  • Vestibular and visual physical therapy

Each plan is designed to improve confidence and reduce the risk of falls.

How long will it take?
There is no schedule for stroke recovery. Your stroke is unique to you and your recovery will move at your own pace, based on your own situation.

Be prepared to work through plateaus
Your recovery may slow down or seem to stop for a time. You may even feel you are getting worse. This is a common feeling. Your therapist may say you have reached a plateau and may reassess your abilities. Don’t get discouraged.

You will likely find that you keep making progress for many months and even years after your stroke. Brain’s potential for neuroplasticity and re-learning is truly infinite!

In Summary

Stroke is a difficult injury to navigate. Physical therapy is a primary modality in returning to function after a stroke.

If you have any questions or need to see us, please get in touch!

About the author

Arjun Patel, PT, MScPT, MCPA is an orthopedic, neuro, and vestibular physiotherapist. He is the director of Blue Space Clinic Physiotherapy and sees complex cases on a daily basis. He is also an adjunct lecturer at the faculty of medicine at University of Toronto.

To learn more about Arjun and our clinic, click here!