Stroke Recovery - hope needed

[diana521]

My 77 year old mother has a massive ischemic stroke 14 months ago which resulted in hemiplegia (left side paralysis) and left side neglect. Despite poor prognosis she made some progress in the first 6 months (was able to stand with assistance) and the physios were expecting further substantial recovery in her leg but not the arm.  She then got a urine infection, syncope, and prognosis of possible lung caner.  Three months later we were told that the lung spot has shrunk and it is unlikely to be lung cancer.  Because of these medical problems we stopped doing physio and now that she is stable I am wondering is it too late to start physio again after a break of some 8 months.  She has lost a lot of muscle tone and still has some nerve pain.  Is there any hope for my mother who was so active before the stroke.  Everyone is telling me to be realistic and not to expect any progress but I am having difficulties coping and accepting that my mum will never be able to make just a few short steps.  

[helenrose]

Definitely go back to physio!  It is certainly not too late.  I'm a physio student from NZ.  I can't give professional opinion yet but it is possible that physio might help with both the muscle tone and nerve pain.  Plus Sue is right, it will be great for your mum to be around others who she can relate to and have fun with.

[susancm]

I'm sorry that this has happened; I'm a  survivor myself.  Recovery is an ongoing process and never really stops.  (After 15 years I can still see improvement; physically and cognitively)   To me activity, and being around others is so important; I would restart the physio; people mean well, so do doctors,  but if I had a dime for every time I proved the doctors wrong I'd be a wealthy woman!
Just to add, your mom's lucky to have you.

Sue