I had a stroke almost 4 years ago and while everyone would describe me as high functioning as I am back at work, driving and regularly cycling, my left hand and arm remain poorly functioning and spasticity continue to hamper my efforts. I would like to improve further but all rehab has stopped and I would have to find time and fund any further treatment myself so must be beneficial. I would love to type again. Am I being too greedy to want this?

Hi Fiona,

I’m sorry to hear about your stroke and the ongoing hand and arm difficulties that you're experiencing.

The short answer to your question is – no, absolutely not!

We know that neuroplasticity allows recovery to occur many years after stroke occured. Setting SMART recovery goals (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, time specific), finding the right therapy and support, and participating in the right amount and type of practice can allow you to achieve some remarkable outcomes.

For more help with goal setting, contact StrokeLine on 1800 787 653 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm)

I’d encourage you to have a listen to our podcast on Neuroplasticity to learn more about how the brain can adapt after stroke.

Our podcast on spasticity may also be of interest. In particular, listen to how fellow stroke survivor Adrian O’Malley manages his spasticity.

In terms of accessing more therapy, we discuss this on page 5 of our 2017 summer edition of StrokeConnections.

There are a number of different options including utilising your private health insurance, accessing therapy through the Medicare Chronic Disease Management Plan scheme, or seeking referral back to a community-based rehabilitation service. Specifically, I would ask your GP about referral to a spasticity clinic.

I hope this information is of use. If we can be of any further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact StrokeLine on 1800 787 653.

Best wishes,

Alana (Speech Pathologist from StrokeLine)