Recommended treatment during the flaccid or hypotonic stage includes:
1. Positioning of the affected limbs as described above
2. Weight-bearing to the affected limbs – this can be done with assist from a helper. Weight bearing for the arm can be done on a mat, the side of the bed, a ball, a table, etc. Weight bearing to the leg will occur when transferring from bed to chair or when learning to transfer and stand with the therapist.
3. Passive range of motion in a pain-free zone – this means either having a helper move the affected extremities or using the strong arm to move the weak or paralyzed arm. See stroke-rehab.com/passive-range-of-motion.html to learn how to perform these type of exercises.
4. Relearning sitting balance with assistance from helper – learning to sit up using hands to help stabilize, then sitting up without hands, shifting weight side to side and forward/back
5. Muscle facilitation – (tapping, electrical stimulation, quick stretch)
6. Attempting movement with the affected extremities including activites like:
Trying to slide the arm across a table with a towel
Placing the hand on a ball and trying to roll the ball forward/back or side to side
Placing the hand on a cane with assist from a helper for grasp and then trying to push and pull the cane
Trying to slide the leg on a mat or bed when lying down
Trying to straighten the leg when sitting in a chair (or slide the foot on a towel on the floor)
7. Mental Imagery - The patient will imagine the movement needed to perform a task and rehearse it mentally. This technique has been used by athletes to improve their performance and has also been shown to be effective in helping stroke patients improve UE movement.
To find out more about treatment for hypotonia or flaccidity, visit https://www.stroke-rehab.com/Flaccid-Paralysis-Treatment.html
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