Post-Stroke Sequelae Treatment

Post-stroke sequelae are neurological impairments left after cerebrovascular accidents, mostly in middle-aged and elderly individuals, but increasingly seen in younger populations. Common symptoms include hemiplegia, speech disorders, dysphagia, and memory impairment. Treatment relies mainly on neurological rehabilitation, medication, psychological interventions, and emerging therapies such as stem cell therapy. Without timely intervention, neurological damage may worsen, significantly affecting quality of life and even causing long-term disability.

Emerging Treatment Methods

Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cell therapy is a major breakthrough in recent years for treating post-stroke sequelae. By injecting stem cells with differentiation potential into the damaged area, this technique activates neural repair mechanisms, promotes nerve regeneration, accelerates functional recovery, and reduces residual sequelae.

① Promoting neural repair: Stem cells can differentiate into neurons and glial cells to fill damaged areas.

② Suppressing inflammatory responses: Improves the local microenvironment and reduces secondary brain injury.

③ Activating endogenous repair: Stimulates activity of existing stem cells in the brain, enhancing self-repair capacity.

④ Improving functional connectivity: Enhances integration and coordination of neural pathways in different brain regions.

⑤ Personalized treatment: Develops precise injection plans based on patient condition assessment.

Conventional Treatment Methods

1. Motor rehabilitation training

Exercise therapy is the core of rehabilitation. Planned gait training, strength training, and balance training help restore motor abilities, prevent muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, and improve independence in daily life.

2. Speech and cognitive training

For patients with language disorders and memory impairment, speech therapy and cognitive training enhance expression, comprehension, attention, and logical thinking. Continuous intervention helps improve communication and restore social function.

3. Drug-assisted therapy

Medications that improve cerebral blood flow (such as citicoline and cerebrolysin) promote neural metabolism and enhance brain function. For patients with depression or anxiety, antidepressants are necessary to ensure rehabilitation progress.

4. Physical therapy and occupational therapy

Physical modalities such as electrical stimulation, infrared therapy, and hot/cold compresses relieve muscle spasms and improve circulation. Occupational therapy focuses on simulating activities like dressing and eating to improve independence in daily tasks.

5. Swallowing and respiratory rehabilitation

Many stroke patients have dysphagia or speech articulation disorders. Therapists use swallowing exercises, breathing regulation, and assistive devices to help patients eat safely, reduce aspiration risks, and prevent secondary lung infections.

6. Psychological interventions and social support

Long-term disabilities can cause anxiety and depression. Interventions include behavioral therapy, family support, and group counseling to establish a positive recovery mindset, enhance self-efficacy, and restore social participation.

7. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy

Hyperbaric oxygen increases blood oxygen levels, improves oxygen supply to brain tissue, and aids in repairing damaged neurons. It is often used as an adjunct during early rehabilitation to accelerate neural regeneration.

8. Traditional Chinese medicine adjunct therapy

Acupuncture, massage, and herbal medicine help improve circulation and overall health, and when combined with modern therapies, they enhance rehabilitation effectiveness. This integrative approach is favored by many patients.

9. Rehabilitation assessment and personalized management

Treatment plans should be continuously adjusted according to symptoms and functional deficits. Setting phased rehabilitation goals and conducting regular assessments significantly improve recovery efficiency and reduce long-term sequelae.

Conclusion

Post-stroke sequelae are neurological conditions that can be significantly improved through continuous intervention. Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that systematic evaluation combined with diverse therapies, especially innovative techniques such as stem cell therapy, may help patients break rehabilitation barriers and regain independent living ability.