Phone:
+6011-56331685
Email Address:
theneurofit@gmail.com
70 Y/O Aunty Tan’s Journey
Stroke Recovery Through Strength Training.
The Initial Challenge
In 2022, at the age of 70, Aunty Tan suffered a left basal ganglia infarct (stroke).
The stroke left her unable to move her right side and affected her speech. After six months of intensive rehabilitation at a rehabilitation hospital, she regained some independence — walking with a quadricane, standing up on her own, and managing basic daily tasks.
However, after discharge, progress slowed. Without proper guidance, Aunty Tan became less active, her strength declined, and she even experienced a fall at home due to imbalance while walking.
Assessment & First Breakthrough
When we first assessed Aunty Tan at home, her main goals were clear:
- Walk more confidently
- Regain strength, especially in her right hand and leg
- Reduce risk of falls
On assessment, we found that Aunty Tan had some movement on her right side but avoided using it due to low confidence. Her static balance was good, but dynamic balance and coordination were poor.
Our first breakthrough came when we encouraged her to start involving her right side again. With gentle bodyweight training and guided practice, she slowly regained trust in her right hand and leg. Even simple achievements—like standing more steadily and using her right hand in daily tasks—marked important steps forward.
Our Mission:
Rebuild confidence in using her right side
Improve her balance to reduce the risk of falls
Strengthen her whole body through progressive training
Support her towards greater independence in daily life
The Tailored Treatment Plan:
Right Hand & Upper Limb
Focused on shoulder stability and rotator cuff strength. Gradually, Aunty Tan could drink with her right hand and open her wallet with both hands
Lower Limb & Balance
Strengthened glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves. She progressed from walking with support to walking unaided at home and climbing stairs safely.
Strength & Conditioning
Started with bodyweight, then added resistance. She advanced to squats and light deadlifts, building strength she never imagined at her age.
The Inspiring Outcome:
Despite the challenges, she made steady progress:
- Able to use her right hand in daily activities with improved grip and shoulder stability
- Walks more confidently, unaided at home, and climbs stairs safely
- Improved balance, reducing her risk of falls
- Started resistance training (squats, deadlifts), regaining strength and independence
Her journey shows that even after hospital rehabilitation, continuing structured exercise at home is essential to maintain and improve function.
Tips for Recovery
Stay Active: Recovery doesn’t stop at hospital discharge—consistent exercise is key.
Use the Affected Side: Avoid neglecting the weaker side; practice builds confidence and function.
Balance Training Matters: Strong balance prevents falls and restores independence.
Strength Training Works: Resistance training is safe and effective for stroke survivors.
Guidance Helps: Professional support ensures proper technique, safety, and motivation.
