top of page
Physiotherapist teaching a patient with stroke how to walk again in Burlington

Stroke

Are You Recovering From a Stroke?

Are You Recovering From a Stroke? Physiotherapy Can Help You Regain Control of Your Life

 

Have you or a loved one recently experienced a stroke? Are you struggling with weakness, difficulty walking, or stiffness that makes daily life challenging? At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, we specialize in stroke recovery and can help you restore function, independence, and confidence.

What is a Stroke?

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either by a clot (ischemic stroke), bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke), or a temporary blockage (transient ischemic attack / TIA). This interruption damages brain cells, leading to problems with movement, speech, balance, and sensation.

  • Ischemic Stroke – caused by a blood clot or blockage (≈87% of cases).

  • Hemorrhagic Stroke – caused by a ruptured blood vessel.

  • TIA (“mini-stroke”) – temporary clot that resolves but serves as a warning sign.

 

Signs of a Stroke (FAST)

  • F – Face: drooping on one side

  • A – Arms: weakness or inability to lift both arms

  • S – Speech: slurred or jumbled

  • T – Time: Call 9-1-1 immediately

Common Physical Effects After a Stroke

  • Spasticity: stiff or rigid muscles limiting movement.

  • Hemiparesis: weakness or paralysis on one side of the body.

  • Foot Drop: dragging or scuffing of the affected foot when walking.

  • Claw Toes: painful curling of toes on the affected side.

  • Post-Stroke Fatigue: overwhelming tiredness even after rest.

  • Pain: joint, nerve, or muscle pain affecting mobility and quality of life.

Types of Symptoms After a Stroke

Stroke symptoms vary depending on the part of the brain affected and the severity of the event. They can be divided into motor, sensory, cognitive, and emotional changes:

​

  • Motor Symptoms

    • Weakness or paralysis (hemiparesis/hemiplegia) on one side of the body

    • Spasticity (stiff or rigid muscles)

    • Poor balance and coordination

    • Difficulty walking, frequent falls, or foot drop

    • Problems with fine motor skills (e.g., buttoning a shirt, writing, grasping objects)

  • Sensory Symptoms

    • Numbness or tingling in the face, arms, or legs

    • Vision changes (blurred or double vision, partial loss of vision)

    • Pain, burning, or hypersensitivity in affected areas

  • Speech & Cognitive Symptoms

    • Slurred or unclear speech (dysarthria)

    • Difficulty finding words or understanding language (aphasia)

    • Memory problems or poor concentration

    • Slowed thinking and problem-solving difficulties

  • Emotional & Behavioral Symptoms

    • Mood swings, depression, or anxiety

    • Fatigue or low energy

    • Difficulty controlling emotions (emotional lability)

 

Because every stroke is unique, recovery requires a tailored plan that addresses both physical and cognitive changes.

When To Seek Help

  • After discharge from hospital or inpatient rehab.

  • If weakness, stiffness, or walking difficulties interfere with independence.

  • If pain, fatigue, or spasticity make daily tasks overwhelming.

  • If you are experiencing frequent falls or difficulty balancing.

Why Choose Cogent Rehab Burlington?

At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center, we understand that stroke recovery goes far beyond basic exercise. Patients and families choose us because:

​

  • Specialized Stroke Rehabilitation Expertise: Our physiotherapists have advanced training in neurorehabilitation techniques like the Bobath/NDT approach, gait retraining, and spasticity management.

  • Personalized, Goal-Focused Care: Every patient’s stroke journey is different. We design individualized treatment plans that target your specific challenges — whether it’s walking safely, regaining use of a hand, or improving balance.

  • Holistic Approach to Recovery: We don’t just treat physical symptoms. We also address pain, fatigue, cognition, and emotional well-being, helping you return to meaningful daily activities with confidence.

  • Cutting-Edge Rehab Methods: We integrate evidence-based approaches including therapeutic exercise, functional electrical stimulation, manual therapy, custom splinting, and assistive technology to maximize recovery.

  • Support for Patients and Families: Stroke affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. We provide education, home exercise guidance, and coping strategies to help families feel empowered and supported.

  • Community-Focused Care in Burlington: As a trusted local clinic, we’re committed to helping Burlington residents rebuild independence and quality of life after stroke.

How Physiotherapy Helps After a Stroke

Stroke recovery is a long-term process. Physiotherapy plays a critical role in helping you regain strength, coordination, and independence.

​

At Cogent Rehab, our physiotherapists use evidence-based approaches such as:

Schedule An Appointment
Today

Don’t let the after-effects of stroke hold you back. Our Burlington physiotherapists at Cogent Rehab are ready to support you every step of the way.

FAQs About Stroke

Q: How soon should I start physiotherapy after a stroke?
A: As soon as your doctor clears you. Early intervention improves recovery outcomes.

 

Q: Can physiotherapy help years after a stroke?
A: Yes. Even long after a stroke, physiotherapy can improve mobility, reduce spasticity, and help with independence.

 

Q: How long will recovery take?
A: Recovery varies for each patient. Some improvements happen within weeks, while others may take months or longer. Consistency is key.

bottom of page