This year, stroke recovery in Ireland has a new gold standard. The new National Clinical Guideline for Stroke – adopted across Ireland and the UK – has officially raised the bar for what your recovery should look like.

It’s not just a document for hospitals. It has a direct impact on you and your family. So, what’s changed?

1. The New Mandate: More Intensive Rehab

The evidence is clear: to get the best results, rehabilitation needs to be intensive. The days of gentle, infrequent exercise are over. The new guideline calls for more focused, high-dosage therapy to help the brain rewire (a process called neuroplasticity).

2. The New Focus: Self-Directed Therapy

For the first time, the 2023 Guideline includes a new section on self-directed therapy. This means you, the patient, are encouraged to take an active, empowered role in your own recovery at home. Your therapy team will guide you, but the work you do between their visits is now recognised as a critical part of the plan.

The Challenge: How Do You Do Intensive Rehab by Yourself?

This is the key question. If you have limited mobility, how can you safely perform intensive, repetitive exercises on your own?

The Solution: Technology Designed for the New Standard

This is exactly why the Tigo 558 was developed. It’s designed to help you meet the guideline from your own home.

• Its passive mode (motor-assisted) allows you to begin intensive therapy immediately, even if you have no active movement yet (hemiplegia). The Tigo does the work for you, moving your legs or arms to build pathways in the brain.
• Its assisted mode supports you as you start to regain strength, helping you complete movements.
• Its active mode provides resistance, allowing you to build real muscle and endurance.

This passive, assisted, active model means you can safely achieve the intensity and volume of exercise that the guideline demands. You can be your own self-directed therapist, in control of your recovery.

Don’t let your recovery fall short of the new national standard.

Learn more about our Tigo 558 rental plan and take control of your rehabilitation.

The 3 Stages of Stroke Recovery and Why Movement is Key to Your Healing Journey

Recovering from a stroke is a complex and highly individualised process. While every person’s experience differs, the road to recovery typically follows a path through three distinct stages. At every step, movement and physical therapy play a vital role in helping survivors regain strength, mobility, and independence.

We’ll explore these three stages and dive into why physical activity is essential for long-term recovery.

Stage 1: Acute Phase (First Days to Weeks) 

What Happens During the Acute Phase:

The acute phase begins immediately after the stroke and lasts for the first few days to weeks. During this stage, medical teams focus on stabilising the patient, preventing further complications, and assessing the severity of damage caused by the stroke. Patients might be experiencing severe physical impairments, such as paralysis on one side of the body (hemiplegia), difficulty speaking (aphasia), or trouble with balance and coordination.

The Role of Physical Therapy:

Although it may seem counterintuitive to start therapy while still in the hospital, this is the perfect time to introduce gentle movement. Physical therapists often begin with passive exercises, where they help move the patient’s limbs to prevent stiffness and improve circulation. Even small movements help reduce the risk of complications like blood clots, muscle atrophy, or joint stiffness.

Starting physical therapy early also helps stimulate the brain’s neuroplasticity – its ability to reorganise and form new connections. The sooner the body starts moving, the faster the brain begins relearning lost motor skills. Using a device like the Tigo 558 early on can support this gentle movement, providing safe, guided exercises even when strength is limited, helping to kickstart the recovery process.

Stage 2: Subacute Phase (Weeks to Months)

What Happens During the Subacute Phase:

After the initial hospital stay, most stroke survivors enter rehabilitation centers or continue recovery at home. This is when the brain and body are primed for rehabilitation. During this phase, most stroke survivors make the most significant improvements. However, recovery requires a consistent, active approach.

Patients are likely to experience a mix of progress and frustration. Some motor functions may return quickly, while others take longer to regain. For example, walking and using the affected arm or hand might come back at different speeds.

The Role of Physical Therapy:

In the subacute phase, physical therapy intensifies. The goal is to retrain muscles, improve coordination, and regain lost functions. Movement-based therapies, including exercises to improve strength, balance, and flexibility, are crucial in this phase.

At-home therapy devices like the Tigo 558 are incredibly valuable during this stage. With the flexibility to perform guided exercises in the comfort of home, stroke survivors can maintain a regular rehabilitation routine, which is key to sustaining improvements. Consistent movement, whether through walking, leg and arm exercises, or balance training, enhances brain function, strengthens muscles, and reduces fatigue. Devices designed for home use ensure that progress doesn’t halt when therapy sessions end.

Stage 3: Chronic Phase (Months to Years) 

What Happens During the Chronic Phase:

After a few months, stroke survivors enter the chronic phase. This stage is often characterised by slower progress. However, it’s important to remember that recovery is still possible, even years after the initial stroke. Survivors may experience plateaus in their recovery, but continued physical therapy remains essential to maintain gains and prevent regression.

The chronic phase often brings new challenges. Some survivors may notice lingering stiffness or weakness in their limbs, making everyday activities difficult. Without ongoing movement, muscles can become weaker, and mobility can decline.

The Role of Physical Therapy:

While progress may slow in this phase, the importance of regular movement cannot be overstated. Routine physical therapy helps prevent muscle stiffness, increase flexibility, and improve overall strength. Exercises that focus on repetitive, task-specific movements help reinforce neural connections and continue building muscle memory.

In the chronic phase, home therapy devices remain a critical tool. By allowing stroke survivors to engage in consistent physical activity, they help keep the body and mind active, reducing the likelihood of losing the progress made in earlier phases. The Tigo 558, for example, can support safe, effective, and regular rehabilitation exercises that help maintain strength, balance, and coordination.

The Science Behind Movement and Recovery 

Neuroplasticity: The Brain’s Power to Rewire

The brain has an amasing ability to adapt and reorganise itself after a stroke – a process known as neuroplasticity. Every time you move, exercise, or engage in therapy, you’re teaching your brain how to reroute signals through undamaged pathways. Physical therapy is the key to activating these new pathways, helping the brain and body relearn critical movements like walking or grasping.

Muscle Memory and Mobility

Just like neuroplasticity helps the brain recover, muscle memory helps the body remember movements it once performed. Regular physical activity is essential to keep muscles strong and responsive. Without movement, muscles weaken, joints stiffen, and mobility declines, which can prolong recovery or even cause setbacks. This is why devices and therapies focused on movement and mobility are so crucial in all phases of recovery.

The Path to Recovery is Paved with Movement

The road to recovery after a stroke is often long and challenging, but it is also filled with opportunities for improvement. In each stage of recovery – acute, subacute, and chronic – movement plays an essential role in helping stroke survivors regain their strength, mobility, and independence.

Whether in the early days after the stroke or months down the line, consistent physical therapy and movement-based exercises are critical. Tools like the Tigo 558 allow individuals to continue their progress in the comfort of their own home, providing the support needed to recover faster and maintain long-term health and mobility.

With the right approach, stroke survivors can look forward to a brighter future filled with renewed strength and independence.

Stroke recovery is a crucial journey that requires the right blend of medical intervention, rehabilitation, and emotional support. In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards facilitating quicker community reintegration for stroke patients. This approach is centred on the premise that the sooner patients can return home, the better their chances of a successful recovery. In this blog post, we examine the effectiveness of prompt discharge combined with home rehabilitation for stroke patients, supported by recent research findings. Additionally, we introduce an innovative tool that can aid in this process—the TiGO 558.

The Importance of Early Discharge and Home Rehabilitation

Research* has shown that early discharge followed by tailored home rehabilitation programs can significantly enhance the recovery process for stroke patients. A recent randomised trial highlighted several key benefits of this approach:

1. Shorter Hospital Stays: Patients in the home intervention group had an average hospital stay that was 10 days shorter than those receiving usual care. This reduction in hospital time not only alleviates the burden on healthcare facilities but also fosters a more comfortable recovery environment for patients.

2. Improved Community Reintegration: The study revealed that patients who received home rehabilitation showed significant improvements in their Reintegration to Normal Living (RNL) scores at one and three months post-stroke. This suggests that early discharge and home-based care can accelerate the process of reintegration into daily life and community activities.

3. Maintained Functional Outcomes: Despite the shorter hospital stays, there were no significant differences in the physical health outcomes measured by the Barthel Index (BI) or the Timed Up & Go (TUG) test between the two groups. This indicates that home rehabilitation is just as effective as traditional care in maintaining physical function.

Introducing the TiGO 558: Your Partner in Home Rehabilitation

To support the home rehabilitation process, we are excited to introduce the TiGO 558—a state-of-the-art device designed to enhance the recovery experience for stroke patients.

Key Features of the TiGO 558

1. Personalised Rehabilitation Programmes: The TiGO 558 offers customisable rehabilitation exercises tailored to the specific needs of each patient. This ensures that the rehabilitation process is both effective and enjoyable.

2. Real-Time Monitoring and Feedback: Equipped with advanced sensors, the TiGO 558 monitors patients’ progress in real-time, providing instant feedback and adjustments to the rehabilitation programme as needed. This helps maintain motivation and ensures optimal recovery.

3. User-Friendly Interface: The device is designed with an intuitive interface that is easy for both patients and caregivers to use. This minimises the learning curve and allows patients to focus on their recovery.

The combination of prompt discharge and home rehabilitation has proven to be a powerful approach in the recovery journey of stroke patients. By reducing hospital stays and facilitating faster community reintegration, this method not only benefits patients but also alleviates pressure on healthcare systems.

The TiGO 558 stands out as an invaluable tool in this process, offering personalised, real-time support that adapts to the needs of each patient. By embracing innovative solutions like the TiGO 558, we can ensure that stroke patients receive the best possible care on their path to recovery.

If you or a loved one is navigating the recovery process after a stroke, consider the benefits of early discharge combined with home rehabilitation, and explore how the TiGO 558 can support this critical journey. For more information contact us directly. Your health and well-being are our top priorities.

Research Link

* There’s No Place Like Home

Movement training stands at the forefront of rehabilitation practices, offering profound benefits that extend beyond mere physical recovery. It is a dynamic approach that focuses on improving patient mobility, activity levels, and overall quality of life. Let’s delve into the myriad benefits of movement training and how it revolutionises the rehabilitation journey.

1. Enhanced Mobility

One of the most significant benefits of movement training is its ability to enhance patient mobility. Whether recovering from surgery, injury, or managing chronic conditions, movement training focuses on restoring and improving the range of motion in affected areas. Through targeted exercises and techniques, patients can regain the ability to move freely and efficiently, which is crucial for daily activities and independence.

2. Increased Strength and Endurance

Movement training incorporates strength-building exercises that are essential for muscle recovery and growth. Patients gradually increase their physical endurance, enabling them to perform tasks for longer periods without fatigue. This increased strength and stamina are critical for returning to normal routines and engaging in activities that may have been impossible due to their condition.

3. Improved Balance and Coordination

Falls and loss of balance are common concerns, especially among elderly patients or those with neurological impairments. Movement training includes exercises that improve balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and related injuries. Enhanced balance also contributes to greater confidence in performing daily activities, thus promoting independence.

4. Pain Reduction

Chronic pain can be a debilitating barrier to mobility and quality of life. Movement training helps in alleviating pain through controlled and guided exercises that strengthen muscles and improve joint function. It encourages the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, thereby providing relief and improving the overall well-being of patients.

5. Mental Health Benefits

The psychological impact of movement training is profound. Regular physical activity is known to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. It fosters a sense of accomplishment and progress, boosting the morale of patients. Engaging in movement training can also provide a social outlet, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting mental well-being.

6. Functional Independence

The ultimate goal of rehabilitation is to restore functional independence. Movement training equips patients with the skills and physical capability to perform everyday tasks without assistance. This independence is crucial for improving the quality of life, as it allows patients to return to their normal routines and enjoy activities they love.

7. Customisation and Personalisation

Movement training can be tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of each patient. This personalised approach ensures that the exercises and techniques used are effective and relevant to the individual’s condition and progress. Customised training plans lead to more efficient and successful rehabilitation outcomes.

8. Long-Term Health Benefits

Engaging in regular movement training during rehabilitation sets a foundation for a healthy lifestyle. Patients are more likely to continue exercising post-rehabilitation, maintaining the benefits gained and preventing future health issues. This long-term commitment to physical activity can lead to improved overall health and longevity.

Movement training is an indispensable component of rehabilitation, offering a holistic approach to recovery that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By enhancing mobility, strength, balance, and functional independence, movement training not only aids in the immediate recovery process but also sets the stage for long-term health and improved quality of life. For patients and healthcare providers alike, the benefits of movement training are undeniable, making it a cornerstone of effective rehabilitation strategies.

The Tigo 558 is invaluable in rehabilitation by providing tailored support for both assisted and independent movement exercises. This versatile device enables patients to progressively improve their strength, endurance, and mobility, making it an essential tool in enhancing the overall effectiveness of movement training.

When Adam suffered a severe stroke, his world turned upside down. The once active and independent retiree found himself confined to a hospital bed, facing a long and arduous journey to recovery. The prospect of leaving the familiar environment of his home for extended periods of rehabilitation was daunting. This is where Beechfield Healthcare’s innovative service stepped in, bringing hospital-grade care directly to his doorstep with the Tigo 558 physical therapy device.

 Bridging the Gap Between Hospital and Home

 At Beechfield Healthcare, we believe that the healing process is not just physical but deeply emotional and psychological. Being in a familiar environment can significantly enhance recovery, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Our mission is to provide hospital-grade rehabilitation equipment, like the Tigo 558, directly to patients’ homes, ensuring they receive the highest standard of care without the need for frequent hospital visits.

Supplying Advanced Technology

The Tigo 558 is a state-of-the-art physical therapy device designed to facilitate a wide range of rehabilitation exercises. It helps individuals regain their mobility, strength, and independence. For Adam, this device was a game-changer. By providing the Tigo 558, we enabled him to continue his rehabilitation journey at home, under the guidance of his care team.

Seamless Delivery and Maintenance

Our role at Beechfield Healthcare is to ensure the seamless delivery and maintenance of the Tigo 558. We work closely with the patient’s care team to coordinate every detail. From arranging the delivery to setting up the device and providing ongoing maintenance, our dedicated team ensures that the equipment is always ready for use.

Empowering Recovery at Home

The Tigo 558 offers Adam the ability to perform a variety of therapeutic exercises in the comfort of his own home. This advanced device tracks his progress, adjusts to his therapy needs, and allows him to stay engaged with his rehabilitation plan. With our support, Adam can focus on his recovery without worrying about the logistics of managing complex equipment.

Reclaiming Independence, Restoring Confidence

The impact of our service goes beyond providing equipment. It’s about reclaiming independence and restoring confidence. For Adam, the ability to undergo rehabilitation at home meant he could stay connected with his loved ones, maintain his daily routines, and gradually reintegrate into his community.

 Your Journey, Our Commitment

 At the heart of Beechfield Healthcare is a commitment to transforming lives, one step at a time. We believe that everyone deserves the highest standard of care, no matter where they are. By supplying the Tigo 558 and ensuring its smooth operation, we bring hospital-grade rehabilitation therapy into the home, providing the support and convenience that patients need.

Adam’s Story: Our First Case Study

We are incredibly proud to share that Adam is the first case study we can go public with since the launch of Beechfield Rehab in late 2023. His inspiring journey showcases the profound impact of our services and the Tigo 558 on his recovery process. Adam’s courage and cooperation in telling his story highlight the real-world benefits of our home-based rehab solutions. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Adam for allowing us to be part of his recovery and for sharing his experience with the world.

If you or a loved one requires advanced rehabilitation equipment like the Tigo 558, let us bring the care and support you need to your doorstep. Experience the difference of hospital-grade rehab therapy in your own home and take the first step towards a brighter, healthier future.

If you or a loved one have experienced a stroke, you understand the journey ahead is filled with uncertainties and challenges. But amidst this journey, there’s a beacon of hope and guidance waiting for you: “My Stroke Journey.”

This invaluable resource, crafted for stroke survivors, families, and caregivers, is not just another book; it’s a roadmap to recovery, filled with insights, advice, and heartfelt stories from those who have walked this path before.

Here’s why you should download a copy of “My Stroke Journey” today:

1. Tailored Information: From understanding what a stroke is to navigating the complexities of rehabilitation and beyond, this book covers it all. Whether you’re seeking information on hospital processes, rehabilitation techniques, or post-hospital care, “My Stroke Journey” has you covered.
2. Accessible Format: You don’t need to read it cover to cover. With a user-friendly Contents page, you can easily find the information you need, precisely when you need it. It’s designed to be a companion on your journey, offering guidance at every turn.
3. Real-Life Stories: The journey of recovery can feel isolating, but within the pages of “My Stroke Journey,” you’ll find comfort in the stories of fellow survivors and their families. These narratives provide insight, encouragement, and a sense of solidarity, reminding you that you’re not alone on this path.
4. Gratitude and Recognition: The book extends gratitude to those who have contributed their expertise and experiences to its creation. From healthcare professionals to stroke survivors and their families, each acknowledgment is a testament to the collaborative effort behind this invaluable resource.
5. Continued Support: Beyond the pages of the book, “My Stroke Journey” connects you with a network of support and services available in the community. Whether it’s accessing rehabilitation programs or seeking assistance with daily activities, this book serves as a gateway to ongoing support on your journey to recovery.

As you embark on your own stroke journey, remember that knowledge is power, and “My Stroke Journey” is a powerful tool in your arsenal. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this book offers invaluable insights and guidance to navigate the challenges ahead.

“My Stroke Journey” would not have come to life were it not for the financial support of the Nursing & Midwifery Planning & Development Unit, HSE West Mid-West, and the dedication and commitment of Niamh Murtagh (Candidate Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Stroke) and Niamh Kelly (Senior Occupational Therapist).

We acknowledge and appreciate the collaborative effort of all involved in bringing this resource to fruition.

 So, why wait? Download your copy of “My Stroke Journey” today and take the first step towards a brighter, more empowered tomorrow.

Navigating Your Path To Recovery: Why “My Stroke Journey” Is A Must-Read

If you or a loved one have experienced a stroke, you understand the journey ahead is filled with uncertainties and challenges. But amidst this journey, there’s a beacon of hope and guidance waiting for you: “My Stroke Journey.”

 This invaluable resource, crafted for stroke survivors, families, and caregivers, is not just another book; it’s a roadmap to recovery, filled with insights, advice, and heartfelt stories from those who have walked this path before.

 Here’s why you should download a copy of “My Stroke Journey” today:

1. Tailored Information: From understanding what a stroke is to navigating the complexities of rehabilitation and beyond, this book covers it all. Whether you’re seeking information on hospital processes, rehabilitation techniques, or post-hospital care, “My Stroke Journey” has you covered.
2. Accessible Format: You don’t need to read it cover to cover. With a user-friendly Contents page, you can easily find the information you need, precisely when you need it. It’s designed to be a companion on your journey, offering guidance at every turn.
3. Real-Life Stories: The journey of recovery can feel isolating, but within the pages of “My Stroke Journey,” you’ll find comfort in the stories of fellow survivors and their families. These narratives provide insight, encouragement, and a sense of solidarity, reminding you that you’re not alone on this path.
4. Gratitude and Recognition: The book extends gratitude to those who have contributed their expertise and experiences to its creation. From healthcare professionals to stroke survivors and their families, each acknowledgment is a testament to the collaborative effort behind this invaluable resource.
5. Continued Support: Beyond the pages of the book, “My Stroke Journey” connects you with a network of support and services available in the community. Whether it’s accessing rehabilitation programs or seeking assistance with daily activities, this book serves as a gateway to ongoing support on your journey to recovery.

 As you embark on your own stroke journey, remember that knowledge is power, and “My Stroke Journey” is a powerful tool in your arsenal. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this book offers invaluable insights and guidance to navigate the challenges ahead.

 “My Stroke Journey” would not have come to life were it not for the financial support of the Nursing & Midwifery Planning & Development Unit, HSE West Mid-West or the dedication and commitment of Niamh Murtagh (Candidate Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Stroke) and Niamh Kelly (Senior Occupational Therapist). We acknowledge and appreciate the collaborative effort of all involved in bringing this resource to fruition.

 So, why wait? Download your copy of “My Stroke Journey” today and take the first step towards a brighter, more empowered tomorrow.