Cryotherapy (Icing) for Grip Strength with Hemiparesis After Stroke | Occupational Therapy Practice

Introduction One common sequela of stroke is difficulty performing movements due to spasticity or increased muscle tone. More severe cases of spasticity may result in limited functional independence of daily activities such as ADLs of eating, bathing, toileting, dressing, bathing, and grooming (ADLs). Spasticity has been defined differently, but one common definition is marked by … Read more

ADLs for Trunk Rehabilitation after Stroke with Occupational Therapy

One of the most effective interventions occupational therapists can use for trunk rehabilitation is ADLs, IADLs, and mobility tasks. Often after a stroke, there is a loss of trunk control and subsequently a loss of functional independence. Hsieh and colleagues found a strong correlation between how trunk control can be an early predictor of comprehensive … Read more

Brushing Teeth and Oral Hygiene After a Stroke (How to Apply Toothpaste) – Occupational Therapy

This guide provides some ideas and insights into occupational therapy intervention for oral care after a stroke in the hospital (acute care, acute rehab). Barriers Pain: generalized, involved limbs Dizziness: from vision, medications Poor balance Motivation, Depression Vision and perception: inattention, neglect, field cut Proprioception Hemiparesis Tone: hypo- or hypertonicity Sensation: impaired Attention: short Memory: … Read more

Top Ways to Improve Commodes for Toileting

Let’s talk about commodes Commodes are a wonderful piece of DME for toileting. They can be quite versatile, e.g, 3-in-1, are portable for use by patients in facilities and in the home. Some variations of commodes include drop-arm commodes, bariatric commodes, and technically a rolling shower commode counts as one. In my head, I have … Read more

What to Know About ADLs and IADLs – Occupational Therapy

Definition ADL stands for activities of daily living. ADLs are the essential activities that humans need to do every day. The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) publishes a Framework that is regularly updated. This framework defines and describes what ADLs are. The activities that comprise ADLs have changed over time. For example, rest and sleep … Read more