This post curates free stroke recovery tools available online.
These tools will help you in your movement recovery journey. Keep in mind that government-funded rehab programs in Canada and elsewhere provide only a limited number of sessions.
ViaTherapy App
This is an excellent app.
You can download it for free.
It is a product of five years of research by an international panel from Canada, the US, Australia, New Zealand, The Netherlands, the UK, and Sweden.
In Canada, two esteemed groups have partnered to create the product: the University Health Network (UHN) and the Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery of the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Via Therapy uses virtual reality technology.
It helps stroke survivors regain movement and function in affected body parts.
One of the main benefits of Via Therapy is that it allows stroke survivors to practice movements and tasks in a safe and controlled environment.
Benefits of Via Therapy
By using virtual reality, therapists can create simulations of everyday activities, such as reaching for objects or walking, that can be adjusted in difficulty as the patient improves. This allows for a tailored and progressive rehabilitation program that can be tailored to the individual’s needs.
Another benefit of Via Therapy is that it can be used in conjunction with other forms of physical therapy, such as exercises and stretches, to provide a comprehensive rehabilitation program. This can help stroke survivors to achieve better outcomes than they would with traditional physical therapy alone.
Via Therapy has also been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of falling among stroke survivors. Many stroke survivors have difficulty with balance and coordination, which can make them more prone to falls. Using virtual reality simulations to train balance and coordination, Via Therapy can help stroke survivors to reduce their risk of falling and improve their overall safety.
In addition, Via Therapy has been found to be effective in improving psychological well-being among stroke survivors. Many stroke survivors experience depression and anxiety due to their condition, but this method has been shown to help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Overall, Via Therapy is a promising therapy for stroke survivors that can help them to regain movement and function, improve their safety, and improve their overall quality of life.
Further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits of it and to determine the best ways to implement it in clinical practice. However, the current research suggests that Via Therapy is a valuable tool for stroke rehabilitation and should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for stroke survivors.
You can download the link through this link: https://www.viatherapy.org/#gettheapp
GRASP
GRASP is a free stroke recovery tool. It aims to improve arm and hand movements after a stroke. The tool is a product of the University of British Columbia’s researcher-practitioner, Dr Janice Eng, PhD, PT/OT. She and her team developed this resource after a comprehensive neuro-rehab research program; it has two versions: A hospital version and a home version. Both versions consist of books, manuals, and video clips.
The word, GRASP is an acronym; it refers to the “Graded Repetitive Arm Supplementary Program”. The tool follows the Canadian Best Practice Recommendations; the stroke recovery efforts need to be intensive, repetitive, and task-specific. You can find more about this here.
GRASP is based on the principles of motor learning and repetition and is designed to help stroke survivors regain strength, dexterity, and coordination in their affected limbs.
GRASP is designed to be a supplementary program that can be used in conjunction with traditional physical therapy and rehabilitation services. The program consists of a series of exercises and movements that are performed with increasing difficulty as the patient improves. The graded repetition of these exercises is designed to help stroke survivors develop the strength, dexterity, and coordination necessary for daily activities, such as dressing, eating, and grooming.
One of the key benefits of GRASP is its focus on arm and hand impairments. Stroke survivors often suffer from significant arm and hand impairments, which can greatly impact their ability to perform daily activities and lead to decreased independence. GRASP is designed specifically to address these impairments and help stroke survivors regain strength, dexterity, and coordination in their affected limbs.
GRASP is also highly effective in promoting recovery. Studies have shown that stroke survivors who participate in GRASP have improved arm and hand function, increased strength and dexterity, and greater independence in daily activities compared to those who did not participate in the program. This is due to the program’s emphasis on repetition and progression, which helps to promote motor learning and recovery.
In addition, GRASP is a cost-effective rehabilitation solution. Unlike other rehabilitation programs that may require expensive equipment or specialized facilities, GRASP can be performed with simple, low-cost equipment, making it accessible to stroke survivors and their families.
GRASP is a highly effective rehabilitation program for stroke survivors who have suffered arm and hand impairments. With its focus on repetition and progression, GRASP helps stroke survivors to regain strength, dexterity, and coordination in their affected limbs, leading to improved independence and quality of life. As a cost-effective solution, GRASP is accessible to stroke survivors and their families, making it a valuable tool for stroke recovery.
You can access this resource through this link: https://neurorehab.med.ubc.ca/grasp/grasp-manuals-and-resources/grasp-home-patient-book-2/
FAME
FAME, or the Fitness and Mobility Exercise program, is a group exercise program specifically designed for people who have suffered from a stroke and have some standing and walking ability. FAME is designed to help stroke survivors regain their mobility, strength, and balance, as well as improve their overall health and well-being.
FAME is based on the principles of exercise and rehabilitation and is designed to be a fun and engaging way for stroke survivors to participate in physical activity. The program includes a variety of exercises and movements that are designed to challenge the participant’s abilities and promote recovery. The exercises are performed in a group setting, allowing stroke survivors to participate in physical activity with others who have similar experiences and goals.
One of the key benefits of FAME is its focus on both physical and social aspects of recovery. Stroke survivors often experience significant physical impairments, but can also suffer from social isolation and depression. FAME provides a supportive and social environment for stroke survivors to participate in physical activity, which can help to improve their mood and overall well-being.
FAME is also highly effective in promoting recovery. Studies have shown that stroke survivors who participate in FAME have improved mobility, strength, and balance compared to those who did not participate in the program. This is due to the program’s emphasis on exercise and progression, which helps to promote motor learning and recovery.
In addition, FAME is a cost-effective rehabilitation solution. Unlike other rehabilitation programs that may require expensive equipment or specialized facilities, FAME can be performed in community centers, gyms, or even in participants’ homes, making it accessible to stroke survivors and their families.
FAME is a highly effective rehabilitation program for stroke survivors who have some standing and walking ability. With its focus on exercise and social interaction, FAME helps stroke survivors to regain their mobility, strength, and balance, as well as improve their overall health and well-being. As a cost-effective solution, FAME is accessible to stroke survivors and their families, making it a valuable tool for stroke recovery.
Here is the link: http://fameexercise.com/
Online exercise programs from March of Dimes Canada
March of Dimes Canada is a leading organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals living with disabilities, including stroke patients. One of the ways they help stroke patients is through online exercise programs. These programs provide stroke survivors with access to tailored, exercise-based rehabilitation programs from the comfort of their own homes.
These online exercise programs are designed by experienced rehabilitation specialists and are based on the latest evidence-based practices in stroke rehabilitation. They include a variety of exercises and movements that are designed to challenge the participant’s abilities and promote recovery. The programs are also customizable, allowing stroke survivors to progress at their own pace and receive support along the way.
One of the key benefits of these online exercise programs is the convenience they offer. Stroke survivors can participate in the program at any time, from any location, making it easier to fit rehabilitation into their busy schedules. The programs are also accessible through a computer or mobile device, allowing stroke survivors to participate even if they are unable to attend traditional physical therapy sessions.
Another benefit of these online exercise programs is the level of support they provide. Participants have access to rehabilitation specialists who can provide guidance and support, helping to ensure that they are using the program effectively and making progress towards their goals. The programs also include a supportive online community, where participants can connect with others who have experienced similar challenges, share experiences, and receive encouragement.
Online exercise programs offered by March of Dimes Canada are a valuable resource for stroke survivors. With the convenience and support they offer, these programs make it easier for stroke survivors to participate in exercise-based rehabilitation, leading to improved mobility, strength, and overall well-being. By providing these programs, March of Dimes Canada is helping to improve the lives of stroke survivors and support their journey towards recovery.
March of Dimes Canada runs group-based online exercise programs on weekdays. You can enter the following website through this link: https://www.marchofdimes.ca/en-ca/programs/Pages/Online-Exercise.aspx#stroke
IWalkAssess App
This is another evidence-based app that helps you to assess your walking ability after a stroke. It includes the following features;
- Administer walk test
- Interpret performance
- Treatment, education, and goal setting
You can access the IWalkAssess website through this link: http://www.iwalkassess.com/
You can get more information from the Knowledge to action lab site; https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh65ZgnzmSuJ2jWDjTVz1-w/videos
The IWalkAssess app is a powerful tool designed to help stroke survivors regain their mobility and independence. Developed by rehabilitation specialists, the app is designed to be used by stroke survivors to assess their walking ability and track their progress as they work towards recovery.
The IWalkAssess app uses a combination of sensors and algorithms to provide detailed information about the user’s walking pattern, including speed, stride length, and step symmetry. This information can then be used by rehabilitation specialists to create tailored exercise programs that help the user improve their walking ability. The app also includes progress tracking features, allowing users to see how their walking ability has improved over time.
One of the key benefits of the IWalkAssess app is its convenience. Unlike traditional rehabilitation programs that require frequent visits to a rehabilitation center, the app can be used from the comfort of the user’s own home. This makes it easier for stroke survivors to participate in rehabilitation and monitor their progress, even if they are unable to attend physical therapy sessions.
Do you know more free resources available online free? Please mention those in the comment section for others’ benefit.
