Ask Dr. Nick
On today’s episode, Dr. Nick talks about the benefits of eye movement training following acute stroke. A stroke is characterized by diminished blood flow to a part of the brain either due to blockage of an artery (ischemic) or breakage and blood leaking (hemorrhagic). The lack of blood flow results in an absence of oxygen and nutrients for the cells needing to maintain energy. This causes neuronal dysfunction that is often seen as face drooping, arm weakness, and speech difficulties. The standard treatment for acute care includes blood thinners and anticoagulants and possibly surgery for other complications. Exercise is not a typical addition to acute strokes, but eye movement training may be beneficial to hasten recovery if started early. Check out the video for more in depth information on how eye exercises can improve acute stroke outcomes!
Carrick FR, Oggero E, Pagnacco G, Wright CHG, Machado C, Estrada G, Pando A, Cossio JC and Beltrán C. Eye-Movement Training Results in Changes in qEEG and NIH Stroke Scale in Subjects Suffering from Acute Middle Cerebral Artery Ischemic Stroke: A Randomized Control Trial. Front. Neurol. 2016; 7:3.
