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MANAGEMENT OF THE HEMIPLEGIC PATIENT
Author(s) -
Kurasik Steve,
Sutton Bruce B.
Publication year - 1969
Publication title -
journal of the american geriatrics society
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.992
H-Index - 232
eISSN - 1532-5415
pISSN - 0002-8614
DOI - 10.1111/j.1532-5415.1969.tb02325.x
Subject(s) - rehabilitation , medicine , natural history , activities of daily living , physical therapy , physical medicine and rehabilitation , nursing
A bstract In the past hemiplegic patients often have been considered hopeless cripples and relegated to some chronic disease institutions or nursing homes, there to vegetate for their remaining years. Our experience indicates that regardless of the extent of disability, the hemiplegic patient always can be helped to some degree by a dynamic program of rehabilitation. Presented briefly are discussions on the care and treatment of hemiplegic patients during the acute phase, the management of residual defects, and the objectives of a rehabilitation program. It is essential to learn the natural history of hemiplegia in order to suggest the proper treatment for the proper patient at the proper time. The goals of rehabilitation must be realistic. Evaluation should include long‐range planning and establishment of the therapeutic limitations. The patient's functioning and adjustment to his handicap depend greatly upon the family's attitudes toward him and his disability. With proper management of the disability, the hemiplegic patient can look forward with hope to years of useful life.