Interview with Mr. Ton, who received stroke rehabilitation for two months and regained the ability to walk and independently perform daily activities
When he first arrived at KIN, the patient had experienced a stroke that caused weakness on the left side of his body. He was unable to sit, walk, or take care of himself. After receiving rehabilitation at KIN for two months, he regained the ability to walk, return to his daily life, and independently care for himself.
Experience of a person receiving stroke rehabilitation
How did you learn about KIN?
Mr. Ton: My partner found information about KIN and brought me here.
What was your condition like when you first arrived at KIN?
Mr. Ton: I had weakness on the left side of my body and was unable to sit or walk. I had experienced a stroke and could not take care of myself.
Have you now achieved the goal you set?
Mr. Ton: I have achieved my goal. I can walk, return to my normal daily life, and independently take care of myself again.
How long did your rehabilitation take?
Mr. Ton: Two months.
What impressed you during your stay?
Mr. Ton: I liked both the physical therapy department and the nursing and NA teams. Everyone was kind, friendly, and approachable.
What would you like to say to people who have experienced a stroke?
Mr. Ton: Do not give up. Come and visit KIN first. Physical therapists are always available to provide advice, and everyone here is highly capable. Keep fighting. I was able to recover, and you can recover too. This condition is not as frightening as you may think. Stay committed, maintain your motivation, and keep going. Recovery is possible.
STROKE is a common and serious medical condition that can occur suddenly and rapidly. Stroke is a major global health concern, and its incidence continues to increase. Therefore, understanding the importance of stroke, recognizing its warning signs, and knowing how to respond are essential. Rapid medical treatment can help reduce the severity and impact of a stroke as much as possible.
What symptoms require immediate medical attention?
F.A.S.T. is a widely recognized international acronym used to identify the warning signs of stroke. F.A.S.T. stands for Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time. If any of these symptoms occur, the person should be taken to the hospital immediately, ideally within 4.5 hours.
The principle of transcranial magnetic stimulation involves delivering magnetic pulses to the brain through a device called a treatment coil. These magnetic fields are similar in nature to those used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Low-intensity electromagnetic energy stimulates neural circuits in the brain without surgery. The procedure is generally painless and has a high level of safety.
The precise mechanism of transcranial magnetic stimulation continues to be studied. However, research has reported that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can alter neural circuits, influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical system, and modify neurotransmitter activity. In stroke patients, the affected area of the brain may have reduced activity, while the unaffected side may become hyperactive. TMS may therefore be used to increase activity in the affected area while reducing excessive inhibitory signals from the unaffected side. It may also stimulate the release of important substances such as growth hormone and brain-derived neurotrophic factor.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation is currently used as part of rehabilitation programs for many stroke-related symptoms, including weakness of the arms and legs, speech difficulties, and swallowing problems. It has been reported to be well tolerated and safe, and may provide greater benefits when combined with physical therapy.