Stroke clinic is a multi-disciplinary clinic which would consist of a neurologist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist,neuropsychologist and a speech therapist.
Initially the neurologist will take details of your stroke and clinically examine you. A diagnosis of stroke, the type and severity of stroke and the cause of storke will be ascertained. If necessary, blood tests and scans will be requested for.
If it is a follow up visit, after examination, patient will be directed to the physiotherapist. The physiotherapist will evaluate the patient and teach necessary physiotherapy. There are a variety of equipment for strike patients including muscle stimulation,suspension therapy, passiveassisted ROM,muscle strengthening. Mat exercises,parallel bars, posture mirror, staircase training, quadriceps table and weight training.
The occupations therapist will suggest modifications in the home and work environment to suit the needs of a stroke patient.
Depression is a very common problem that hinders recovery and rehabilitation in stroke patients. Our neuropsychologist will look into psychological aspects of stroke, neuropsychological assessments, behavioural and emotional problems. Based on the patient's cognitive impairment, social, behavioural, emotional, difficulties, neuropsychologist will teach cognitive re-training techniques, cognitive skills, brain gym, cognitive behaviour therapy, behaviour modification techniques and relaxation therapy.
Speech therapist will assess speech and swallow of the patient. Various modes of speech therapy like melodic intonation therapy will be given to the patient.
To summarize,the stroke clinic will look into various aspects of stroke like diagnosis,treatment,speech and swallow, memory and mental status. Physiotherapist and occupational therapist will work together to improve the motor weakness and adaptability to the environment.
The ultimate aim of the stroke clinic is to re-integrate the stroke patient into the community,as fast as possible.