recovery of right side ischaemic stroke

[net2012]

My mum had a stroke on the 28 september 2009 which left her with left side paraylsis in her arm and leg. After being in hospital for a week she went to rehab for 4 weeks and came home on Friday jst gone. She is very tired all the time and in pain on her right side at night.  Does anyone know if it is possible for ther to recover her leg movement, she is currently having to live downstairs,wheelchair bound and can transfer with a stan hope machine. She received physio in rehab and the PT have given us exercises to do with her, ones they did at the hospital..... are we wasting our time.... really scared. I believe most improvement made in first 4 weeks and as it is 6 weeks for mum a little bit apprehensive as to what her future holds!  She really tries when doing physio on her leg... she can tense her thigh muscle and hold for 5 (is this a good sign that improvements can be made)? can anyone help, my mum is really positive when not so tired but I really want to remain positive with her but again we are all unsure what to expect. By the way has anyone heard of NeuroAid medicine - is it a con?

thanks

Netx

[oc1dean]

Neuroaid currently does not have any research backing up its claims. Regarding recovery you need to get a 3d picture of your moms brain showing the dead area and the penumbra. Ask your doctor to explain what was controlled by the dead area and the penumbra. The penumbra normally recovers on its own in 6-12 months, but you will still need to do lots of exercises to help it along. The control for the completely dead area is extremely hard to recreate in another location in the brain. Your doctor will have no clue on how to do that. Passive movement and Mental imagery are probably good options for your mom to try.
Dean