10 Tips for Improved Walking for the Severely Affected Stroke Patient

Natural therapist Walter Kocken author of the book Stroke: How to Reduce Risk And Aid Recovery – Naturally has compiled 10 tips for improved walking for the severely affected stroke patient who requires assistance from a stick or frame.
These are:

  1. Do Not Rush Learn to walk in a relaxed, calm manner and you will get to your destination more quickly.

  2. Learn Relaxation Techniques Incorporating Relaxation Techniques releases muscle tension in the affected leg allowing for easier movement and a better way of walking.

  3. Try Not To Walk Or Stand For Long Periods Walking or standing for too long creates additional muscle tension in the affected leg that will become very noticeable that same evening and into the next day(s).

  4. Be Aware Of Slippery Or Uneven Surfaces Walking tends to deteriorate when surfaces are slippery or uneven, especially if the patient is experiencing anxieties.

  5. Try Not To Talk Whilst Walking For the severely affected stroke patient attaining good levels of concentration and awareness whilst walking are essential. Talking is suggested after the patient stops walking and attains a balanced position.

  6. Experiencing Negative Emotions Will Affect Walking When the patient experiences anxiety/fear, anger, and/or depression this has a tendency to create additional muscle tension in the affected leg that will affect walking.

  7. Talk To Yourself With A Silent Affirmation The stroke patient can from time to time experience moments of panic. By using a silent affirmation in the form of “I am calm and relaxed” this can potentially override panic and improve walking.

  8. Be Aware Of Climbing Steps And Steep Slopes Maintaining balance, attaining good levels of concentration and awareness are essential when climbing steps and steep slopes. This activity is guaranteed to create additional muscle tension in the affected leg that will become noticeable later in the evening and into the next day(s).

  9. Be Cautious When Walking In A Crowded Environment The unpredictability of people in a crowded environment can make walking a difficult exercise for the stroke patient. If people are too close, it is advisable for the stroke patient to stop, attain balance, wait for the person to pass and then to move to forward.

  10. Walking In Cold Weather Can Be More Difficult Cold weather increases muscle tension in the affected leg and can make walking a more difficult exercise.

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