At Pro Health Exercise Physiology, we help stroke survivors regain function, strength, and confidence through tailored, evidence-based movement therapy.
This blog outlines the types of stroke, common symptoms, areas of the brain affected, and the role exercise physiology plays in effective stroke recovery.
Types of Stroke
Understanding the type of stroke someone has experienced helps shape their recovery plan. The three main types include:
Ischaemic Stroke
The most common type of stroke, caused by a blocked or narrowed blood vessel. This restricts oxygen and nutrients to the brain and is often due to fatty deposits, blood clots, or cardiac debris.
Haemorrhagic Stroke
Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or bursts, causing bleeding into brain tissue. It may result from weakened vessels, aneurysms, head trauma, or a severe ischaemic stroke that has progressed.
Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)
Often called a “mini-stroke”, a TIA causes stroke-like symptoms that last only a few minutes and cause no lasting damage. However, it’s a serious warning sign of a potential future stroke and should never be ignored.
Signs and Symptoms of Stroke
Stroke symptoms vary depending on the part of the brain affected, but common signs include:
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Trouble speaking or understanding speech
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Numbness, weakness, or paralysis (typically on one side of the body)
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Vision loss or double vision
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Sudden, severe headache
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Difficulty walking, dizziness, or balance issues
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Fatigue or reduced endurance
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Impaired fine motor skills
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Incontinence
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Pain (nerve-related or muscular)
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Swallowing difficulties
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Muscle contractures (stiffness)
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Sensitivity to cold surfaces
Brain Areas Commonly Affected by Stroke
Different areas of the brain control different functions. Here are some commonly impacted regions:
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Cerebellum – Responsible for coordination, movement, and balance
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Basal Ganglia – Involved in mood regulation, emotions, and decision-making
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Brainstem – Controls automatic body functions like breathing, heart rate, and reflexes
Best Practices for Stroke Recovery
At Pro Health Exercise Physiology, we apply evidence-based strategies to promote neuroplasticity, restore function, and reduce complications. These include:
Neuroplasticity Training
Stroke recovery relies heavily on retraining the brain. We use techniques such as:
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Repetitive, task-based movements (e.g., reaching or grasping)
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Mirror therapy
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Mental imagery
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Constraint-induced movement therapy
Resistance Training
Strength-based exercise builds endurance, supports muscle function, and stretches stiff or contracted muscles. We focus on slow, controlled movements to improve both safety and outcomes.
Aerobic Exercise
Low- to moderate-intensity cardiovascular exercise helps to:
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Lower blood pressure
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Improve heart health
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Reduce the risk of another stroke or heart event
How Pro Health Exercise Physiology Can Help in Stroke Recovery
Our team of Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) specialises in helping stroke survivors improve mobility, independence, and quality of life through customised exercise programmes.
We support your recovery through:
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Comprehensive assessments of mobility, balance, coordination, and strength
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Tailored exercise prescriptions to target weakness, pain, fatigue, and limited movement
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Guided neuroplasticity training to retrain the brain and restore motor control
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Cardiovascular conditioning to prevent secondary heart events
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Rebuilding confidence and independence in daily life activities
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Ongoing support and motivation as part of a holistic rehabilitation team
Start Your Stroke Recovery Journey with Pro Health
Recovering from a stroke can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At Pro Health Exercise Physiology, we’re here to guide you every step of the way with professional support, customised care, and a plan that puts your goals first.
Whether you’re in the early stages of recovery or looking to regain lost function years after a stroke, contact us today to learn how our team can help you move forward, stronger, safer, and more confident.
