Stroke Support Group

On April 4th I had a stroke in my cerebellum. I have been going to pt to try to get my balance back. I am still walking with a cane when I go out of the house, but I am doing better. It is very frustrating, one day everything is fine and next I feel like I am learning to walk again. The doctor said I was lucky because there was a clot in a major artery and could have done alot more damage. I have found that going to physical therapy has helped with my balance. Congratulations on your baby. I almost forgot to tell you I am 35.

Well, a stroke is a form of a brain injury, often refered to as an ABI (acquired brain injury). This can present many similar challenges as a traumatic brain injury (trauma to the head causes a brain injury). The best thing you can do to help yourself is work on what your deficits are. You said that you can balance somewhat, but not very good. I am a personal trainer and also did a lot of balance work while recovering from my brain injury. Try standing next to something (table, chair, or couch) and hold on. If you can balance without holding on quite well, then you should challenge yourself a bit more. Stand next to the support (couch or whatever) and close your eyes (this will challenge your balance). It might take a minute or two to stabilize yourself in that position. Once you are stable just standing next to the support, try holding on, then closing your eyes then letting go. A good deal of your balance it based on visual ques. By challeging yourself like this, it will force your body (and brain) to become stronger in that realm. Good luck and God Bless

I am sorry u r having so many problems especially being a new Mom. U should b enjoying that rule fully. I hope u keep up with the pt. I knew the progress maybe slow and painful but even little baby steps is progress. I do wish u all the luck in the future.