Positive Outcomes for Stroke Patients
More than 200,000 people suffer the aftermath of a stroke every year. Though it commonly believed to be an event that affects only older individuals, it can occur at any age. A variety of factors can contribute to the occurrence of a stroke including a high cholesterol, obesity, poor stress management, or high blood pressure – all of which are high incidence within the American population.
When a stroke occurs, blood flow to the brain is interrupt in such a way that the body begins to lose its ability to function normally. A major symptom involves paralysis of muscles or even an entire side of the individual’s body. Depending on how long and severe a stroke is, paralysis can be permanent or temporary. If temporary, some individuals regain their mobility within weeks – other may take months or even years to regain full use of the affected region of their body.
At the Loudi Convalescent Hospital of Hunan, a study of the effects of acupuncture on patients with a temporary form of stroke paralysis were conducted. Three courses of treatments consisting of eight treatments per course were administered. Upon the completion of the study, researchers noted that there was marked improvement in the motor abilities of these patients, however, it was emphasized that early application of treatments is imperative to achieve positive outcomes.
Taipei Medical University researchers discovered similar benefits when their study indicated that acupuncture does benefit patients when compared to a control group. Not only did the acupuncture treatments improve motor abilities, but it also showed to improve joint function and overall balance as well.
The degree to which patient improved varied, mostly dependent upon the amount of time that had lapsed between the stroke’s onset and the administering of acupuncture treatments. In these studies, the amount of time that had lapsed was between one to three weeks with the most significant outcomes occurring in those who began receiving their treatments within the first week.
Feel free to contact us for more information on how acupuncture might be able to benefit you or a loved who is struggling with the neurological effects stemming from a recent stroke.