Stroke (CVA/TIA)

Stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) or transient ischemic attack (TIA), occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is either blocked or ruptures and the blood flow in the brain stops. It is one of the leading causes of long-term disability and can happen to people of any age, race, or gender. In addition to multiple types of strokes, it can greatly vary on how it affects someone depending on where in the brain the stroke was located and the severity. Parkinson’s Disease (PD) occurs when the brain cells that make dopamine, a chemical that coordinates movement, stop working or die. Because PD can cause tremors, slowness, stiffness, and walking and balance problems, it is called a “movement disorder.” But constipation, depression, memory problems and other non-movement symptoms also can be part of Parkinson’s. It is a lifelong and progressive disease, which means that symptoms slowly worsen over time. According to the Parkinson’s Outcomes Project, increasing physical activity to at least 2.5 hours a week can slow Parkinson’s symptom progression. Our Physical Therapists and Physical Therapy Assistants are uniquely trained to design exercise routines that target specific motor impairments. We also can provide frequent, direct feedback to help make you aware of how to exercise most effectively and safely, as well as how to move and walk better and safer.