Exercise
Vascular disease causes narrowing of the arteries (through the deposits of fatty lumps known as atheromas). This may be present in up to 75 per cent of people who have had a stroke.
Regular exercise may reduce some of the lifestyle factors associated with vascular disease and reduce the risk of stroke.
Recommended physical activity such as walking, jogging, cycling or swimming may be difficult for a person with significant activity limitation following their stroke. Nonetheless, research shows that both strength and aerobic training following stroke are beneficial although programmes may have to be modified to allow for functional limitations.
In addition, many physiotherapists recommend the use of task-specific exercise. This may help to train independence in key functional activities such as standing from a chair, walking and arm function.
