Rehabilitating stroke patients’ muscles with Chinese medicine Caring for stroke patients after leaving the hospital is a critical period, and the faster muscle rehabilitation occurs, the fewer lingering symptoms there will be. The optimal period for brain, muscle, and bodily rehabilitation (Golden Period) is within the first 3-6 months after a stroke occurs.
Common symptoms after suffering a stroke include:
- Paralysis or weakness in the affected arm or leg muscles.
- Stiff, immovable muscles and joints, with no strength for movement.
- Stiffness in neck muscles, vocal cords, and tongue, causing unclear speech and difficulty swallowing food and liquids.
- Swelling in the arms, legs, hands, and feet due to lack of movement.
- General body aches and discomfort, resulting in sleep disturbances.
- Muscle spasms.
Chinese medicine is considered another option for treating and improving the muscle and health issues of stroke patients, allowing them to return to normal daily activities. The brain and muscles are stimulated and developed, preventing repeated disabilities or complications from being bedridden, such as:
- Acupuncture
- Needles inserted for 20-25 minutes help normalize blood circulation and vital energy flow in the body.
- Stimulates strength and power in weakened muscles, increasing movement.
- Relieves muscle contractions and stiffness in unused joints.
- Needles in the neck muscles, vocal cords, and tongue improve swallowing and prevent choking; the tongue does not stiffen.
- Electric stimulation devices may be attached to needles to induce electrical currents, aiding in nerve system and muscle function changes, simulating physical exercise.
- Helps balance mood, neurotransmitters, and brain function, reducing depression and improving sleep.
- Increases blood supply to the brain, reducing complications and recurrence.
- Tui na massage
- Tui na is a therapeutic massage that uses gentle, deep pressure from the hands without injuring the patient’s muscles.
- Techniques involve kneading, squeezing, massaging, and acupressure to relieve tense and stiff muscles, alleviating pain and stiffness from limited movement or immobility, and improving joint mobility.
- Makes the patient feel relaxed, easing the mind, reducing anxiety, stress, and depression from illness.
- In addition, Chinese medicine practitioners recommend specific exercises and movements suitable for the patient.
