World Brain Day 2023: Why Is Rehabilitation Essential After Stroke | Expert Explains

World Brain Day 2023: The global event of World Brain Day is observed every year on July 22 to raise awareness about brain health and its disorders. It is an ideal occasion to create and spread awareness about brain-related illnesses and make treatments available to neurological patients. The theme for World Brain Day 2023 is “Brain Health and Disability: Leave No One Behind”, and is an initiative to address brain health impairments.

The report, Neurological disorders: Public health challenges, reveals that of the one billion people affected worldwide, 50 million suffer from epilepsy and 24 million from Alzheimer's and other dementias. Neurological disorders affect people in all countries, irrespective of age, s*x, education or income.

Dr Gaurish Kenkre, General Manager and Center Head, Atharv Ability, Neuro Rehabilitation Centre shared some useful insights on rehabilitation after a stroke and how recovery takes place. According to Dr Kenkre, the likelihood of recovery from a stroke varies for each individual. The first three months after a stroke are crucial for recovery and typically show the most significant improvements.

Recovery time depends on several factors, including the location and extent of brain damage, promptness of medical intervention, the individual's age and overall health, and the quality and comprehensiveness of rehabilitation, he added. Various studies and health experts acknowledge that recovery from brain disorders is possible, but it might take consistency and several years of dedication.

What Is The Duration Of Rehabilitation?

Dr Kenkre states that the duration of stroke rehabilitation varies for each person based on their specific circumstances. A comprehensive rehabilitation program can typically begin 24 to 48 hours after the stroke episode and once the patient is stabilised. It can begin even while the patient is still in the hospital. The rate and extent of recovery are unique to each individual, and rehabilitation may continue for weeks, months, or even longer.

Importance Of Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is indeed important as it helps in improvising movement, speech, strength and carrying daily skills. It also helps in improving the quality of life. Dr Kenkre says that rehabilitation is crucial for stroke patients due to the profound impact a stroke can have on their lives. Stroke-related neurological disabilities are among the most profound outcomes of a stroke episode. Overnight, individuals can go from leading independent lives to relying on assistance for basic tasks such as getting a glass of water or using the toilet.

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)