Rehabilitation Exercises for Arm Paralysis After Cerebral Thrombosis

Rehabilitation training after cerebral thrombosis should begin as early as possible, provided the patient is conscious, stable in vital signs, and the condition has stopped progressing. Training can start as early as 48 hours post-event. The rehabilitation approach should follow a progressive pattern—from simple to complex, easy to difficult, and from proximal to distal parts of the limb.

Proper Positioning During Hospitalization

For patients experiencing arm immobility due to cerebral thrombosis, it is crucial to maintain correct positioning of the affected limb during hospitalization. The hand should be kept open and free of any objects. It's important to avoid placing the hand in positions that resist gravity, as this can lead to stiffness and improper healing.

Assisted Upper Limb Training After Discharge

After discharge, family members should assist in upper limb muscle strengthening exercises. Encourage the patient to perform active movements such as hand clasping, where the unaffected hand interlocks with the affected hand, ensuring the affected thumb is on top. Raise both hands overhead with arms fully extended, pausing at 90° and 180° angles relative to the body. This helps relax the upper limb, relieve shoulder tension, and prevent hand stiffness. All movements should be slow and gentle—avoid forceful pulling or wide, uncontrolled motions.

Additional Therapeutic Activities

Patients can also engage in supported upper limb exercises and manual dexterity training, such as rolling stress balls or small objects like walnuts between the fingers. Light resistance can be introduced based on individual capacity. Practicing dressing and undressing is also beneficial—put on the affected side first and remove from the unaffected side first to minimize discomfort and encourage movement.

Medical Exercise Programs for Faster Recovery

To accelerate upper limb recovery, patients are encouraged to participate in structured medical exercise programs. These routines are designed to improve mobility, strength, and coordination, and should be performed consistently under professional guidance when possible.