AllQas.com
Researchers at the University of British Columbia Okanagan are exploring innovative approaches to assist stroke survivors in regaining movement in their lower body, from hips to feet.
Stroke often affects this area, leading to a lower quality of life, mental health issues, and an increased risk of falls.
Sarah Park, a Master’s candidate at UBC Okanagan’s Centre for Chronic Disease Prevention and Management (CCDPM), emphasizes the challenges stroke victims face in accessing after-hospital rehabilitation services.
The research aims to address these unmet needs, particularly focusing on lower extremity recovery to improve balance, stability, and walking ability for daily activities.
Dr. Sakakibara highlights the importance of accessible rehabilitation for stroke survivors regardless of their geographic location, utilizing technology and clinical expertise to improve recovery.
The study involved 32 stroke survivors within 18 months of their stroke, participating in eight telerehabilitation sessions via video calls with a physical therapist.
The sessions aimed to enhance lower body movement through targeted exercises and self-care advice.
Participants experienced improvements in strength, mobility, and progress toward rehabilitation goals, along with learning self-management skills to continue their progress independently.
Virtual rehabilitation programs developed during COVID-19 have shown promise in improving therapy accessibility, especially for patients in remote areas.
Sarah Park emphasizes the importance of teaching self-management techniques during post-stroke rehabilitation to empower patients to continue exercising and making progress on their own.
Self-management programs aim to enhance health outcomes by assisting individuals in adapting to their circumstances and addressing challenges post-discharge.
Virtual rehabilitation and self-management strategies can improve care continuity for patients returning to their communities and enhance their overall quality of life.