Stroke

During a stroke, part of the brain loses blood flow, leading to damage or death of the brain cells (neurons). This can result in lasting brain damage and long-term disabilities, with over one third of stroke survivors needing significant assistance in activities of daily life. In fact, imaging has shown damaged parts of the brain can remain in a dysfunctional state for years after the injury. Reduced neuron activity, brain blood flow, and tissue oxygenation, along with increased inflammation, are key components of this dysfunction. However, at Re-Gen Fitness and Recovery, we have several therapies to help reduce and reverse this dysfunction, which can lead to improved physical and cognitive abilities. These therapies include:

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

Hyperbaric oxygen is an effective therapy to reduce or reverse the consequences of a stroke, as research has shown it can improve brain blood flow and oxygenation, while reducing the increased inflammation in the brain. For instance, one study found that 40 1-hour HBOT sessions led to a 15% increase in neurological function, a 10.5% increase in physical capacity, a 13.5% increase in disability status and a 22% increase in quality of life when compared to a control group who did not participate in HBOT during their recovery. Another study showed a 21% improvement in neurological function and a 32% improvement in quality of life after 40 1-hour sessions. Other studies have shown the ability of HBOT to improve cognitive function, physical mobility, and depression after a stroke.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)

PEMF can also improve stroke recovery, as it has the ability to increase blood flow to the brain and reduce inflammation. It has also been shown to stimulate the growth of new brain cells, all of which can help to promote healing and recovery. For example, in one study of 60 1-hour PEMF sessions, participants had a 58.5% greater improvement in motor function, a 66.5% improvement in cognitive function and a 56.6% improvement in activities of daily living when compared to a control group that did not perform PEMF. In another study, 40 1-hour PEMF sessions led to a 45% increase in upper arm mobility and improved fMRI scans when compared to a control. A third study revealed that 20 40-minute PEMF sessions could significantly improve swallowing ability in those who had suffered a stroke. 

Cryotherapy and Infrared Heat Therapy

Although not as well researched, cryotherapy and infrared heat therapy have been shown to be promising complementary therapies during stroke recovery. Studies have shown both to be able to improve muscle stiffness and physical function in those who had recently suffered from a stroke. 

Targeted Nutritional Supplementation

At Re-Gen, we utilize high quality nutritional supplements that have been shown to aid in the recovery of a stroke. Research has shown that the supplements found in our “Healthy Aging Blend”, like omega 3s, CoQ10 and vitamin D, can improve vascular health, increase brain blood flow and can reduce the inflammation in the brain. Many of the vitamins and nutrients in our “Antioxidant Blend”, including beet root powder and turmeric, have been shown to improve brain blood flow and reduce inflammation in the brain as well. Finally, the b-vitamins and amino acids in our “Gut Health Blend” have been shown to increase neuron health and activity. 

Guided Fitness and Flexibility Training

Fitness and flexibility training are crucial to health and physical function after a stroke, but can be difficult with the many lasting disabilities that can arise from it. At Re-Gen, our fitness and flexibility training is custom to each client, managed by our lead physiologist, and constantly supervised by our trained fitness specialists. Through a rehabilitative and structured approach, in combination with recovery, we have been able to greatly improve the quality of life and physical capabilities of clients who have had strokes.