Stroke

A stroke can happen without provocation or warning. Nerve cells in the brain that control our bodily movements and how we receive and interpret sensations need a continuous and ample supply of oxygen and other nutrients to function properly. During a stroke, important nerve cells are deprived of this nutrient-rich blood and, if it continues long enough, these cells die. When nerve cells no longer function properly, neither do the parts of the body they operate. Stroke survivors may experience difficulty speaking, can have problems walking and may lose some of their memory.
 

A stroke, or Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA), is the clinical designation for damage to brain function due to loss of blood supply to the brain. Sixty percent are caused by cerebral thrombosis, a clot which forms on the inside of an artery and block blood flow; twenty percent are caused by embolus, a blood clot that "wanders" through the blood stream; and the other 20 percent are a result of cerebral hemorrhage where blood leaks out of vessels into the cranium. BCH offers a comprehensive range of rehabilitation services for all stroke survivors, addressing a wide range of needs.

Stroke Rehabilitation

 

What is a stroke?

A stroke can happen without provocation or warning. Nerve cells in the brain that control our bodily movements and how we receive and interpret sensations need a continuous and ample supply of oxygen and other nutrients to function properly. During a stroke, important nerve cells are deprived of this nutrient-rich blood and, if it continues long enough, these cells die. When cells no longer function properly, neither do the parts of the body they operate. Stroke survivors often experience difficulty speaking, can have problems walking and may lose some of their memory.

Risk factors

While there are definite risk factors that can lead to stroke, one of the best methods of prevention is regular medical check-ups. Often a doctor can detect conditions that may be laying the groundwork for a future stroke, and many of these factors are treatable. Treatable risk factors include:

In addition to these treatable risk factors, there are additional factors that cannot be changed. These include:


Side effects and treatment

On average, every 53 seconds in America someone suffers a stroke, and it remains the third leading cause of death or long-term disability. Those who survive a stroke often have their lives radically altered due to stroke-related neurological effects. These effects can include:

Treatment Options at Boulder Community Hospital

Medical advances in the last few years have increased the ability to treat strokes, and rehabilitation is a crucial component to recovery. At Boulder Community Hospital, we offer a comprehensive range of rehabilitation services for stroke survivors designed to help patients reach the highest possible level of independence and productivity. 

The continuum of care for a stroke usually starts at the emergency department, and may include neuro-ICU, acute hospitalization, inpatient rehabilitation, homecare, and outpatient rehabilitation. Boulder Community Hospital is the only facility in Boulder County that provides a full spectrum of treatment for strokes.

Both our inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs are recognized by the Joint Commission for outstanding quality of care.  In addition, the Inpatient Rehabilitation Program is recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) as a Comprehensive Integrated Inpatient Rehabilitation Program.

Inpatient Rehabilitation Services

Outpatient Rehabilitation Services


Obtaining Services

For more information regarding Inpatient Rehabilitation for stroke, contact us at (303) 938-3168.  For more information regarding Outpatient Rehabilitation, contact us at (303) 441-0493.

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