A stroke can have a significant impact on movement, strength, and coordination, affecting different parts of the body, including the hand, arm, leg, and core. However, with consistent exercise and rehabilitation, stroke survivors can regain lost function and improve their independence and mobility.
At Simpson Physiotherapy, we specialise in helping stroke survivors recover through targeted physiotherapy and structured exercise programs. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best stroke recovery exercises to improve strength, mobility, and function.
🎥 Watch the video below for expert-led exercises to improve hand and arm function after a stroke!
How Does a Stroke Affect Movement?
A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to muscle weakness, loss of coordination, and difficulty with movement. The extent of mobility issues depends on the part of the brain affected.
Common Physical Challenges After a Stroke:
🖐️ Hand & Arm Weakness: Difficulty gripping objects, reduced strength in the fingers and wrists.
🦵 Leg Weakness & Balance Issues: Trouble standing, walking, and maintaining stability.
💪 Shoulder & Core Weakness: Loss of postural control and difficulty with weight shifting.
With the right exercises, you can retrain the brain to improve muscle activation and restore functional movement.
Exercises for Hand & Arm Recovery After a Stroke
1. Hand & Finger Strengthening
Why it helps: Stroke survivors often experience weakened grip strength and reduced dexterity, making it harder to hold objects or perform daily tasks.
Exercise: Hand Squeeze
- Use a soft stress ball or rolled-up towel.
- Squeeze firmly for 5 seconds, then release.
- Repeat 10-15 times per hand.
💡 Tip: Practice picking up small objects like coins or marbles to enhance fine motor skills.
2. Wrist Strengthening
Why it helps: A strong wrist is essential for a better grip and arm control.
Exercise: Wrist Flexion & Extension
- Sit with your forearm resting on a table, hand hanging off the edge.
- Hold a lightweight object (like a water bottle) in your hand.
- Slowly move your wrist up and down.
- Repeat 10-15 times per side.
💡 Tip: Use a resistance band for extra strengthening.
Exercises for Shoulder & Arm Recovery
3. Shoulder Rolls & Arm Raises
Why it helps: Stroke survivors often develop shoulder stiffness, limiting arm movement.
Exercise: Assisted Shoulder Rolls
- Sit or stand tall.
- Gently roll your shoulders forward and backward.
- Repeat 10 times in each direction.
Exercise: Assisted Arm Raises
- Use your stronger hand to assist your weaker arm.
- Slowly raise your arm overhead and bring it back down.
- Repeat 10 times.
💡 Tip: Try these exercises in front of a mirror to monitor movement and posture.
Exercises for Leg Strength & Walking After a Stroke
4. Seated Knee Extensions
Why it helps: Strengthens the thigh muscles, making it easier to stand and walk.
Exercise: Leg Extensions
- Sit in a chair with feet flat.
- Extend one leg straight, hold for 5 seconds, then lower.
- Repeat 10 times per leg.
💡 Tip: Add ankle weights for extra resistance.
5. Standing Heel Raises
Why it helps: Improves balance and walking ability.
Exercise: Heel Raises
- Hold onto a sturdy surface for support.
- Rise onto your toes, hold for 3 seconds, then lower.
- Repeat 10-15 times.
💡 Tip: Progress by doing this without holding on.
Core & Balance Exercises for Stroke Recovery
6. Pelvic Tilts & Bridges
Why it helps: Strengthens the core muscles, which are essential for standing and walking.
Exercise: Pelvic Tilts
- Lie on your back, knees bent, feet flat.
- Gently tilt your pelvis backward, flattening your lower back.
- Hold for 5 seconds, then relax.
- Repeat 10-15 times.
Exercise: Bridges
- From the same position, lift your hips off the ground, then lower slowly.
- Repeat 10 times.
💡 Tip: Add knee raises to challenge your balance further.
Why Exercise is Essential for Stroke Recovery
Regular movement and physiotherapy help the brain form new pathways (neuroplasticity), allowing you to regain lost function over time. At Simpson Physiotherapy, we provide expert-led stroke recovery programs designed to improve strength, coordination, and independence.
Our Stroke Recovery Services Include:
✅ One-to-One Physiotherapy – Personalised exercise plans tailored to your needs.
✅ Hand & Arm Rehabilitation – Targeted exercises to improve dexterity and coordination.
✅ Walking & Balance Training – Helping you regain confidence on your feet.
✅ Home Visits – Receive therapy in a comfortable, familiar environment.
Start Your Recovery Today – Book a Free Discovery Visit!
Recovery after a stroke takes time, but every small step counts. The right exercises and expert physiotherapy can help you rebuild strength, confidence, and independence.
📞 Call us today to book your FREE discovery visit:
0141 530 2092
💻 Learn more about our stroke rehabilitation services here:
https://simpsonphysio.co.uk/
🔹 Your journey to recovery starts now. Let’s take the first step together!
