Spandrels

Let’s raise the issue of spandrels. The dictionary gives a good description. Working out how they may apply to stroke is more difficult. Spandrels are affects that can only exist in conjunction with another affect, though it is still has nothing to do with its associate. Ok? There is a spandrel in the work section of my article on recovery. Consider this: our therapists who put us through routine (dull) exercises with the aim of going faster and longer are preparing us for waiting spandrels such as walking up and down stairs, because our leg muscles are strong enough. Exercises should be designed to lead to recovering affective spandrels. Ask your physio “what spandrels does this exercise lead to?”

Most evolutionary scientists and sociologist think the theory of spandrels has no merit, but I don’t mind being in a majority of two!

Sticking to the role of mental improvement to cope with the opposition stroke presents, the answers to any persuasion industry come in a mass of platitudes, most useful, but not always relevant to stroke recoverer. We have to persuade ourselves that we can do what we want to do. Endless prodding by therapists is useful.

To concentrate, helps but it does not go deep enough. Sales people are advised to be positive and expect to get the sale. The best mind changing phrase I heard was – “if you think you can do it – you can”.

I was put to the test as follows “put your left foot on the step, (positioned between rails) bring your right foot up to join it, maintain your position for four seconds without touching the rails”. This task was new to me. I stared at the step till I lifted my right foot and crashed into the rails. Two times. On the third go, I thought about standing on the step and it worked, also in the fourth and fifth goes.

Make of that what you will, having posited a solution.

I thought it wise to record my experience. Please excuse for giving advice.

Angus