Question

Following a recent stroke, Anthony now has a great deal of difficulty using his right hand, and he has resorted to doing things with his left hand. Your advice to Anthony is to:

a. keep using his left hand so he can become independent more quickly.
b. try using both hands to accomplish a task to recover function in his right hand more quickly.
c. consider the use of nanotechnology to heal his right hand.
d. force himself to use only his impaired right hand to promote neuroplasticity.

Answer 1

Anthony should be encouraged to use both hands to perform tasks, as integrating the impaired right hand alongside the left can stimulate neuroplasticity and promote faster recovery. Professional therapy is also essential in the rehabilitation process.

Step-by-step explanation:

Try using both hands to accomplish a task to recover function in the right hand more quickly.

After a stroke, it is essential to stimulate neuroplasticity and recover lost functions through rehabilitation. This typically includes using the impaired limb in conjunction with the unimpaired one. While using the left hand can promote independence, actively engaging the right hand in tasks is crucial for the rewiring process that can lead to recovery of function. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy play a fundamental role in stroke recovery, focusing on exercises and techniques to stimulate the affected parts of the brain and limbs.

Given that neuroplasticity allows the brain to reorganize itself, it's beneficial for Anthony to incorporate his right hand into daily activities as much as possible. However, completely forcing the use of the impaired hand might not be as effective without the support of the unaffected limb and proper therapy.