How to Get the Most Out of Your Hand Strengthening Program Following a Stroke
Hand Strengthening Program Strategies
Rehabilitation & Recovery
Recovering from a stroke or spinal injury involves retraining muscles, mind, and the nervous system. Here are 4 strategies to stick to your program.
Shop Braces & Support
Explore tools to aid your rehabilitation journey.
Retraining and strengthening a hand involves much more than mechanical motions. The biggest challenge may be focusing your mind on the healing process. Below are four powerful strategies to help you succeed.
Find Motivational Relatability
Apathy is common in recovery. Embed your reason for getting better into your program.
- Use meaningful photos instead of blank objects.
- Incorporate pieces from favorite games like checkers.
- Use warm water during dishwashing for stretching.
Set Concrete Goals
Goals are vital for focus. Following a stroke, goal-setting can be hard, so work explicitly on this.
- Make goals concrete and write them down.
- Post them where you can see them.
- Celebrate and share your success.
Track Your Exercises
A simple ‘X’ on a calendar works wonders. Tracking is a helpful motivator and a communication tool.
It helps communicate progress with professionals and caregivers.
The Just-Right Challenge
Too easy = boredom. Too hard = giving up. Your program should hit the sweet spot.
Work with your therapist to adjust reps and intensity.
Shop Pain Therapy
Manage comfort levels during your rehabilitation.
The Science of Healing
Whatever strategies work for you, do them. Exercise is a vital part of your brain’s healing.
Research shows that exercise not only strengthens muscles but activates the brain’s natural healing processes (neuroplasticity).