What to Expect During Stroke Recovery, and Tips for Improving Mobility and Function After Stroke 

Recovering from a stroke is a unique and often challenging journey. The recovery process can be lengthy, with varying degrees of physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges depending on the severity and location of the stroke. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in stroke recovery, particularly in improving mobility and restoring independence. At Coffs Neuro Physio, we provide individualised care to support stroke survivors through their rehabilitation journey. 

The recovery process after a stroke can differ significantly from person to person, as the effects of a stroke depend on the area of the brain that was affected. Some may experience only mild symptoms, while others may face more significant challenges in movement, speech, or cognition.  

Amanda O’Neill, Founder and Physiotherapist at Coffs Neuro Physio, explains, “Stroke recovery is a marathon, not a sprint. Every person is unique, and it’s important to approach rehabilitation with patience and persistence. With the right physiotherapy support, people can make significant strides in their recovery, improving mobility and regaining independence.” 

Here’s what to expect during the recovery phase: 

• Early Phase (Acute Recovery): During this period, the focus is on stabilising the individual and preventing complications like infections or blood clots. This stage often involves hospitalisation and initial rehabilitation efforts, including basic mobility training and education. 

• Rehabilitation Phase: Once medical issues are under control, a more focused rehabilitation program begins. Physiotherapy becomes key during this phase, and involves exercises, facilitation and movement strategies that target motor skills, strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. Dosage is key to retraining the brain to regain lost skills and functions, like walking, getting up from a chair and using the arm and hand.  

• Long-Term Recovery: Recovery continues well after leaving the hospital, often for months and years. The rehabilitation process is ongoing, and many stroke survivors continue to experience improvements in motor function over time. Maintaining long-term mobility and function may require continued physiotherapy, particularly as the effects of ageing come into play.  

Improving mobility and function after a stroke requires consistent effort and dedication to rehabilitation. Physiotherapists work with people to set realistic goals and provide strategies to regain movement. Here are some key tips for improving mobility: 

• Early Intervention is Key: The sooner physiotherapy begins, the better the chances of improving mobility and regaining function. Early rehabilitation helps stimulate neural pathways and enhances the potential for recovery. It also reduces the risk of secondary complications, like contracture and compensatory movement patterns.  

• Use Neuroplastic Training Principles: Research suggests some key principles that can increase the chance of rewiring the brain in a positive way to improve skills and function. Performing targeted exercises at high dosages, over a range of situations while adding an element of challenge, will keep you tracking towards more normalised, efficient movements.    

• Practice Walking: Regaining the ability to walk is often a top priority in stroke recovery and requires lots and lots of practice. Physiotherapists can help you practice walking safely and with a better pattern, using appropriate equipment and assistive devices, as needed. Your goals may transition to improving independence, being able to manage in more challenging environments, and under different demands.  

• Focus on Balance: Stroke can often impair balance, increasing the risk of falls. Balance training, including (but certainly not limited to) standing on one leg, walking on uneven surfaces and dual tasking, is essential to regain confidence and stability. 

• Be Patient and Consistent: Recovery from stroke is a long process, and it can be easy to become frustrated. It’s important to set small, achievable goals and work consistently toward them. Celebrate progress, no matter how small. 

At Coffs Neuro Physio, we provide tailored stroke rehabilitation programs designed to help people improve mobility, function, strength, and overall quality of life. If you or a loved one is recovering from a stroke, contact us to learn how physiotherapy can support your rehabilitation and help you achieve your goals.