Understanding stroke risk factors: prevention and recovery through physiotherapy

By Leticia Profeta, Neurological Physiotherapist Published

A Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA), commonly known as a stroke, occurs when blood circulation to the brain is disrupted, resulting in functional impairment and, in severe cases, death. Understanding stroke risk factors is crucial for prevention and early intervention.

Types of stroke

Ischemic Stroke (85% of cases)

Caused by blood vessel obstruction that prevents blood flow and oxygen delivery to brain tissue.

Hemorrhagic Stroke (15% of cases)

Occurs when a blood vessel ruptures, causing bleeding in or around the brain.

"Time is brain" - Every minute counts in stroke treatment and recovery.

The role of physiotherapy in stroke care

Physiotherapy is essential for both stroke prevention education and post-stroke rehabilitation. Recovery outcomes depend on:

• Brain region affected

• Severity of the injury

• Time elapsed since onset

• Type of stroke

• Individual patient factors

Each patient responds uniquely to treatment, making personalized physiotherapy assessment crucial for optimal recovery.

Risk factors: what you can and cannot control

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:

• Age (risk doubles every decade after 55)

• Gender (women have higher lifetime risk)

• Genetic predisposition

• Previous stroke or TIA

Remember: These are risk factors, not certainties.

Modifiable Risk Factors - Take Control Today:

🩺 High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

• Most significant controllable risk factor

• Damages brain blood vessels over time

• Action: Regular monitoring, medication compliance, lifestyle changes

🍯 Diabetes

• High blood sugar damages vessels and nerves

• Action: Regular glucose monitoring, medication adherence, dietary management

🧈 High Cholesterol

• LDL cholesterol buildup causes atherosclerosis

• Action: Regular lipid panels, heart-healthy diet, exercise, medication if needed

🚬 Smoking & Excessive Alcohol

• Damages blood vessels and increases blood pressure

• Action: Smoking cessation programs, limit alcohol to recommended guidelines

⚖️ Sedentary Lifestyle & Obesity

• Contributes to hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol

• Action: Regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, weight management

💓 Atrial Fibrillation

• Irregular heartbeat increases clot formation risk

• Action: Proper cardiac management, anticoagulation therapy when indicated

Prevention strategy: your action plan

Daily habits that make a difference:

Risk Factor	Target Goal	Action Steps
Blood Pressure	<140/90 mmHg	Regular monitoring, medication, low-sodium diet
Physical Activity	150 min/week moderate exercise	Walking, swimming, physiotherapy exercises
Diet	Mediterranean-style eating	Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins
Weight	BMI 18.5-24.9	Balanced nutrition, regular exercise

When to seek professional help

Stroke Warning Signs - Act F.A.S.T.:

• Face drooping

• Arm weakness

• Speech difficulty

• Time to call emergency services

Prevention Consultation:

Consider physiotherapy assessment if you have:

• Multiple risk factors

• Family history of stroke

• Previous TIA (mini-stroke)

• Concerns about mobility or balance

The power of proactive health management

"Prevention is always better than rehabilitation, but when stroke occurs, early physiotherapy intervention maximizes recovery potential."

Working with healthcare professionals - including physiotherapists - helps you:

• Assess individual risk factors

• Develop personalized prevention strategies

• Monitor progress effectively

• Make informed health decisions

Your next steps

1. Schedule regular health screenings

2. Discuss stroke risk with your GP

3. Consider physiotherapy assessment for movement and balance

4. Implement lifestyle modifications gradually

5. Stay consistent with preventive measures

Understanding and addressing stroke risk factors is a powerful investment in your future health. By adopting a proactive approach combining medical care, physiotherapy guidance, and lifestyle modifications, you can significantly reduce your stroke risk and improve your overall cardiovascular health.

Ready to take control of your stroke risk? Book a comprehensive physiotherapy assessment to develop your personalized prevention strategy.

About the Author

Leticia Profeta is a physiotherapist in Ireland, dedicated to stroke prevention education and post-stroke rehabilitation. She combines evidence-based practice with patient-centred care to help them achieve optimal health outcomes.

Need stroke risk assessment or post-stroke rehabilitation? Book your consultation today.

This article is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals for personalized assessment and treatment.