Reducing the Risk of a Stroke

Posted January 21, 2022

What is a Stroke?

Stroke is a disease that negatively affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. A stroke occurs when brain cannot get the oxygen and nutrients it needs from a clot forming or the vessel itself bursts. It is estimated that every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke, and it continues to be one of the leading causes of long-term disability. Fortunately, 80% of strokes are preventable.¹

There are many risk factors that can be modified through lifestyle changes.

×           High blood pressure
×           Smoking
×           Diabetes
×           High cholesterol
×           Heavy alcohol use
×           Obesity
×           Heart disease
×           Poor diet
×           Lack of activity

Importance of Exercise

Physical activity is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle for all individuals. And this is even more crucial for individuals with a history of stroke. Exercise can prevent or alleviate many physical and psychosocial impairments associated with a stroke so you can live your best, healthiest life!

×           Fatigue
×           Decreased balance
×           Cognitive and communication impairments
×           Poor endurance
×           Weakness in the arms and legs
×           Fear of falling
×           Difficulty caring for yourself
×           Depressed or anxious mood

Ways to Stay Active

The type of exercise you regularly engage in is also important. Your current physical abilities and personal goals will determine which exercise program is the right fit for you.

Cardiorespiratory fitness

×           Improved heart function
×           Increase activity tolerance
×           Improve mood
×           Reduce risk factors

Strength training

×           Enhance muscle mass
×           Improve physical function
×           Reduce risk factors

Flexibility Exercise

×           Decrease pain
×           Restore mobility
×           Improve range of motion

How Sage Can Help

If you have a history of stroke and are interested in learning more about how you can stay active, give us a call so we can help you get started! One of our skilled therapists can assist you! As they determine your individual needs, they can develop a specialized treatment plan to promote an active lifestyle to minimize disability. We can also help provide you with resources so that you can assist you and your loved ones everyday!

Stroke Facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://cdc.gov/stroke/facts.htm. Published May 25, 2021.
Exercise for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Treatment. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology. 2017.

cva, fitness, risk factors, sage outpatient, stroke, stroke awareness