Is walking again realistic?
For most families the answer is yes in some form, but the form differs from person to person. Some people return to walking without an aid. Some use a stick or a frame, and some need someone beside them.
A physiotherapist can watch your parent move and give an honest picture. It is reviewed as they improve, so the picture changes.
What are the steps towards walking?
Walking is built from smaller skills, and each one is practised in order.
- Sitting steady on the edge of the bed without leaning over.
- Standing up and sitting down, holding a frame or a sturdy table.
- Standing and shifting weight from one leg to the other.
- Taking steps on the spot, then forward and back.
- Walking short distances with a person guarding and an aid if needed.
- Walking indoors, then outdoors on the flat, then on uneven ground.
Skipping steps is where falls happen. A therapist can tell which step your parent is on and what is next.
How much practice is enough?
A Cochrane review of 96 stroke trials found that 30 to 60 minutes of rehabilitation a day, five to seven days a week, appeared effective [1]. That time can include sitting, standing and transfers as well as walking. A few short sessions work better than one long one for someone who tires.
Rest between rounds. In Ipoh’s afternoon heat, the best times are early morning and early evening, with a fan on and water to hand.
Where should the guard stand?
The helper stands slightly behind and a little to the weak side, close enough to catch a stumble. Hold a walking belt around the waist if one is provided. Never grab the weak arm, because it can hurt the shoulder.
Keep the route clear. Move low chairs, loose mats and the shoe rack. Plan rests at the dining table or a stool along the way.
Which walking aid is right?
A walking frame gives the most support and helps someone who is unsteady. A quad cane has four small feet and gives some support for a person with better balance. A plain stick is for someone who needs only a little help.
Ask the physiotherapist to try each with your parent before you buy one. The aid should be the right height and suit the floor at home. Our walking aids guide goes through the choices.
What about walking outdoors in Ipoh?
Start with the porch and the front gate, then the lane outside the house. When the therapist agrees, a short walk in a park such as D.R. Seenivasagam Park or the Polo Ground, early in the morning, is a good goal.
Shade, a bench and a helper beside you make it a pleasure, not a test.
If the toes catch on the ground, see our page on foot drop after stroke. Take the walking aid, a water bottle and a phone every time.
When should you ask for help?
Ask for a review if falls happen, if walking is getting worse, or if your parent is afraid to try. Go to the emergency department for new weakness, trouble speaking or a sudden headache. Hospital review appointments continue as planned.
How does home physiotherapy help?
We watch your parent walk on the floors they use every day, choose the aid, and set the next step. We teach the family and helper to guard safely. You can read about stroke rehabilitation at home for how the visits work.
Our Canning Garden centre, near Fatimah Hospital, is opening soon for people who can travel. Home and centre prices differ and are quoted on WhatsApp.