The effects of a stroke on mobility can vary widely, depending on the severity of the stroke and its location, along with the patient's general level of health. A key part of stroke recovery involves assessing the patient to learn more about the specific nature of the stroke and the level of damage caused. Stroke patients may require physical therapy and other treatments in recovery as they re-learn various skills and work on their mobility.
A mild stroke may not cause any mobility impairments in the patient. Sometimes patients experience some stiffness and lack of coordination, but on a level low enough that it should cause minimal problems. It is possible for strokes to cause issues like partial paralysis of the facial muscles without necessarily impairing the patient's mobility at all, especially in the case of a highly localized stroke where the damage is only present in a small area of the brain.
Bigger strokes, or localized strokes in a very vulnerable area of the brain, can cause paralysis or paresis, often on one side of the body only. This effect of a stroke on mobility may be temporary or permanent. In the case of temporary damage, the patient may need a mobility aid in early recovery while learning to walk and control the arms again, and will eventually be independent. Some remaining spasticity and stiffness can linger in some cases after patients have recovered and their brains have mostly rerouted around the areas of damage.
The effects of a severe stroke on mobility can be profound for the patient and may include complete paralysis on one side or partial paralysis, making it difficult for a patient to walk and perform other tasks. These patients may need to use walkers, canes, or wheelchairs for life as a result of the effects of the the stroke on mobility. While physical therapy can help prevent muscle contractures and help patients compensate for the stroke damage, it will not restore mobility for the patient.
Early treatment of strokes can radically decrease the effects of a stroke on mobility. If intervention is provided early, damage to the brain can be limited and secondary strokes can be rapidly treated. This will increase the chances of making a complete recovery. Providing physical therapy early is also recommended to many patients, to get them active and moving as early in treatment as possible with the goal of keeping the muscles strong and flexible.
