According to The Heart & Stroke Foundation, a stroke is a sudden loss of brain function. It is caused by the interruption of flow of blood to the brain (ischemic stroke) or the rupture of blood vessels in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). The interruption of blood flow or the rupture of blood vessels causes brain cells (neurons) in the affected area to die.
The effects of a stroke depend on where the brain was injured, as well as how much damage occurred. A stroke can impact any number of areas including your ability to move, see, remember, speak, reason and read and write.
Stroke is a medical emergency. Recognizing and responding immediately to the stroke signs by calling 9-1-1 or your local emergency number can significantly improve survival and recovery.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada tells us to watch for these signs of a stroke:
After a stroke, you may be left with numbness and or weakness on one side of the body. Foot drop is a common side effect of a stroke that can affect your balance and walking stability.
Orthotic treatment can help to improve positioning, reduce muscle contractures, and increase function. An Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) can help with Foot Drop or a Wrist Hand Finger orthosis can improve positioning of the wrist and hand.
