In our previous blog, "5 Reasons Why Stroke Risks Are Higher for Military Veterans," we explored the unique risk factors that increase the likelihood of stroke among veterans. Now, we turn our focus to the innovative technologies and therapies that are helping veterans recover from strokes. These tools are revolutionizing rehabilitation and improving long-term outcomes for those who have served our country.
The Stages of Stroke Recovery
It’s important to remember that stroke recovery is an ongoing process, typically divided into three main stages:
Acute Stage: This initial phase, up to 2 weeks post-stroke, involves intensive therapies in specialized centers to address immediate impairments.
Subacute Stage: Up to six months post-stroke, therapies continue to support further recovery. This stage involves reassessing impairments, adjusting goals, and applying new interventions to help veterans regain function.
Chronic Stage: After six months, long-term therapy focuses on maintaining progress and adapting to long-term needs.
Understanding these stages helps to illustrate how different technologies and therapies can be used throughout the recovery process to provide comprehensive support for veterans.
The Power of Mobile Technology
Mobile apps and wearable devices are becoming essential tools in post-stroke recovery, complementing traditional therapies. They offer continuous monitoring and provide real-time data that can significantly improve the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs.
Self-Monitoring and Management: Apps like Vet mHealth allow veterans to track their symptoms, medications, and treatment plans. This level of engagement in their care helps prevent stroke recurrence.
Continuous Health Monitoring: Wearable devices such as smartwatches monitor vital signs like heart rate, activity levels, and blood oxygen. This continuous monitoring can alert both veterans and their healthcare providers to changes that may signal a stroke risk.
Real-Time Data Sharing: These devices enable veterans to securely share their health data with healthcare providers. This real-time data sharing allows for quick responses to health issues and adjustments to care plans.
Improved Access to Care: For veterans in remote areas or those with limited mobility, remote monitoring overcomes geographical barriers, ensuring consistent access to medical support.
Advanced Post-Stroke Technologies
Beyond apps and wearables, advanced technologies are being used to enhance post-stroke rehabilitation. These technologies offer specialized support that can lead to significant improvements in function and independence.
Robotic-Assisted Therapy: Robotic systems guide and support limb movements, which is particularly beneficial for repetitive exercises like walking or arm movements. This therapy helps veterans practice precise movements, improving their mobility.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Gamified Exercises: VR creates immersive therapy experiences, making exercises more engaging and providing detailed feedback. This can boost motivation and ultimately lead to better results.
Telerehabilitation: Online platforms provide access to therapy from home. This is especially helpful for those with limited access to in-person care, allowing for consistent support and progress tracking.
Surface Electromyographic Biofeedback (sEMG-BF): This technology uses sensory feedback to aid in neuromuscular retraining, particularly for veterans experiencing stroke-related muscle weakness. Many veterans benefit from this therapy due to musculoskeletal pain, physical injuries, and neurological conditions.
These advanced technologies complement traditional therapies during acute, subacute, and chronic stages of stroke recovery. The third blog in this series will detail the effectiveness of sEMG-BF for neuromuscular retraining of conditions like hand function, facial paralysis, and dropped foot.
Download the Vet mHealth App today!
The information gathered from the Vet mHealth app is critical health information that typically goes unrecorded, including all vitals, pain levels, and symptoms. The app will help you track your progress and enable your healthcare providers to make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. You can find out more about our Vet mHealth app at https://www.va.gov/resources/find-apps-you-can-use/ and download it directly from the App Store or Play Store.
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