Nothing Stops Your Stroke Recovery Faster Than This!

There is one thing that is especially detrimental to stroke recovery progress. In this video, we'll talk about what it is and how to overcome it!
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Time Stamps:
00:00 Intro
00:14 What is learned non-use?
00:25 Why does learned non-use happen?
1:03 Why is learned non-use detrimental to recovery?
1:41 How can I overcome learned non-use?
2:55 Strategy #1
3:42 Strategy #2
4:34 Strategy #3
5:40 Strategy #4
06:45 Outro
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Music from epidemicsound.com
Medical Disclaimer: All content on this channel is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a physician or qualified healthcare provider. Talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise or therapy regimen.

[@jefferyphillips2731]

The way you take time is definitely appreciated.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

❤️

[@ddub6135]

Thanks for your help. Your doing a great job. Your purpose to help stroke survivors is invaluable.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Of course! Thank you for your kind words ❤️

[@rizvanaisya5229]

Hello Thank you for this video, I'm recovering from spinal cord herniation and I developed this without me even knowing it. But now I'm becoming more aware of my left side and it feels weird. But I can notice that it's getting better. 😊😊

[@PostStrokeOrg]

@rizvanaisya, Thank you so much for commenting and sharing your experience! Glad to hear it's getting better ❤️

[@larrymogen6943]

Thank you please give us more the more, the better, love your approach!

[@49lucky]

My problem is my leg not my arm and hand. My leg seems to be getting worse. I talk to my leg to make it move correctly 😆 😆 it seems to help.

[@leslovesliberty1776]

I do this too & it's helping! 👍😊

[@jonkline709]

Me had stroke feb this year. I can walk but when I stop and try and start again I stumbled un steady 😊

[@Therealtonihickman]

This is so valuable! I have been participating in non use learning for a very long time and this is my first time hearing about it. Though I have been aware of my right side weakness, I needed to understand it from this perspective..thank you ❤.

[@tystomrte4442]

You know you're the first person that actually help me to learn no use and to learn how to use my other arm so thank you cuz no one else taught me that even in the hospitals here in Tennessee so thank you so much

[@PostStrokeOrg]

You have done the hard work

[@larrymogen6943]

Keep it positive, it’s very encouraging,you are so engaging

[@PostStrokeOrg]

❤️ Thank you!

[@williamgehle469]

Excellent points!

[@etherealdeal1792]

Thank u. U r so sweet to put this content out

[@PostStrokeOrg]

❤️

[@user-zs9hn7jy8q]

thank you for these videos. I've made good progress two 1/2 months after stroke but not much on fine motor tuning of left hand. please also address some issues arising when family members assisting me try hard to "help" when I donj,t need it. trying hard to do FOR me and not With me. keep these rolling,please... NAMASTAY!!!!

[@laninaantwine8529]

Thank you I have cerebral palsy a taxi of the cerebellum and I just found out I have neuropathy new to your channel but it is helping and I thank you for that just wanted you to know that I have not had a stroke but a lot of what you recommend helps me with my condition thank you again take care

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Thank you so much for taking the time to comment and sharing your experience. I'm really glad you've found my videos helpful! ❤️ Glad to have you here!

[@kathrynK303]

Thank you so much for sharing your insights! They're very much appreciated!

[@PostStrokeOrg]

You are so welcome❤️ I’m glad they’re helpful ☺️

[@kathrynK303]

@@PostStrokeOrg They're amazingly helpful! I just hit 7 months out and I try to use what you teach along with your stretches and exercises as much as I possibly can!

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Seriously, that makes me so happy. Thank you for sharing🙂

[@kathrynK303]

@@PostStrokeOrg Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us!

[@plant495]

Wonderful! Thank you for the information. I'm going to figure out 3 things to do each day :)

[@purpose8141]

Yes, I can't wait to try these tips!

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Awesome!! Let me know how they work for you☺️

[@prestigemaids7703]

Awesome 👏🏼

[@jhot0817]

is always nice to heard you and see you

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Thank you!

[@freethinker9524]

Thank you maam. Thank you very much young lady.

[@robthompson7816]

Dr Elyse, you possess enviable communication skills, have an appealing manner, and are not verbose, which some other online therapists are. You are clear and helpful in the stroke advice you provide. Thank you. Anthony Wintle (Rev) Wales UK

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Thank you so much, Reverend Wintle. I really appreciate the kind words❤️ hope you’re well!

[@shanabanks8404]

this video has been helpful. it's been 8 years since I had a stroke and I often don't use my affected hand.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

So glad you found it helpful! Thank you for sharing your experience ❤️

[@GeorgeWhittaker]

Thank you.. Been getting better. I developed a terrorizing fear and wonder what i can do for it..Hyperventilating when talking is brutal.

[@strokerecoveryselfstoryhindi]

Useful

[@la2114]

Thanks for the educative video. I subscribed to get your latest videos. Please does the learn non-use apply to loss of speech due to stroke. My mom had stroke 2 years ago. She is doing well with movement but her speech was badly affected that she finds it difficult to communicate and for people to understand her. The doctor called it apraxia of speech. Please can you give tips on how to help her. Thanks for the help.

[@monaelkhamli7305]

thank you

[@RaghvanSV]

hi... Thank for your doing a great job ....

[@PostStrokeOrg]

So nice of you

[@msmeiia]

Thanks!

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Thank you SO much for your contribution to Post Stroke ❤️❤️

[@howardjones638]

Thank you with my left hand

[@pokerchamp6556]

She Is amazing

[@kathy8041]

Thank you for all your knowledge and sharing. Any suggestions for strengthening individuality the fingers? My hand opens and closes all in one motion. Needing to get the dexterity better. Plus when I lay my hand flat the fingers want to bend back to the second knuckles. Any suggestions is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Great question! I do have some videos that isolate movements both for strengthening and dexterity that you may find helpful: Finger extension workout: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d16yemt-h9mBgNE 15 activities to improve dexterity: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJizq4WrfceIrpY

[@davidbennett5601]

My brain, I'm doing good. Learning to use my left side # 1 other the right before my stroke. I was right hardened know I'm both, but as a welder i could weld with both so I'm lucky.

[@CaseyMcCraw]

i had a stroke in September 2020. I didn't have insurance so was not given much therapy. i can walk but have no use of my left hand, i feel like I've lost so much time I'm never going to see progress

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Progress can be made, look through our videos. Persistence is the key.

[@fieldscholars9567]

Thanks for the videos they are very helpful especially reminding me to mindfully use effected hand- writing out alphabet and numerals with affected hand and even txting helps with finger dexterity bc and accuracy am experiencing noticeable daily improvement- one of funnier things I had to focus on was remembering to breath while doing exercises the hand bc😂

[@knxwrtr]

I’m 3 years post stroke and have not regained any form be motor controller l in the hand on my affected side yet. I still stick to the daily exercise regimen my OT developed because it help mitigate the painful neuropathy I have in that limb.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

@aljosef, thank you so much for your comment and sharing your experience! Everyone recovers differently! I'm glad that your exercise regimen has helped with the neuropathy though ❤️

[@dariusemin5086]

There are times when I use the stroke hand to move as if it were a healthy hand, like trying to pick up something. the most effective is trying to pick a light switch and so on and it works even though the stroke hand is still convulsing@spasticity. thank you Dr Elyse Newland for reminding me🙂

[@PostStrokeOrg]

@dariusemin, thank you so much for sharing your experience and what has worked for you! ❤️

[@neetuseecharan4682]

Hi ..great video but what about affected leg/foot ? Any tips on that?

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Thank you. The advice is still the same! Keep moving the affected leg/foot as much as possible!

[@kalvinnoble488]

Liked your video about stroke recovery. I had my acute stroke on the evening of Mon., Feb. 12, 2024. It has affected my right peripherial vision of both eyes, more so my right dominant eye. Is there any form of therapy for my stroke result? Any form of supplement that may help in my recovery, especially my peripheral vision? What about taking a type of Vit. E (Tocotrienols) that supposed to help with strokes and stroke recovery? (See Dr. Eric Berg DC You Tube channel , a video on what to take IMMEDIATELY after having a stroke)

[@fayjoseph7740]

It is a great reminder to use my affected side/left side. So even if it is a little every day it will eventually improve???

[@tomuchfunwithgas846]

Yes.

[@bonniehenkle4870]

My TIA has affected my non dominant side. Please address this issue. Also strange feeling in non affected side that can’t describe. Is that just my nerves are working to recover? Just want affected side to get better.

[@davidstephens7486]

I had a stroke 3 weeks ago on my left leg and arm. I've had intensive therapy for 2 weeks. My prognosis is good. Your videos are great. Why do show a shark in the background so often?

[@megangardner2766]

Hmm- I can walk after stroke 3 weeks ago..🙏🏼 but no calf action left leg. Podiatrist is making a splint for my left leg -knee down. What non-use things can I do for legs please? Right side medulla stroke.. left arm weak too- I feel right side is weaker too..TIA 🌷

[@jeddelrosario3283]

Great Video, as always Elyse. One question. My Therapists warned me not to use my affected hand to prevent spasticity, like opening a door for example or squeezing. Yet you say it's fine. How do I use my hand in a way that won't cause spasticity?

[@PostStrokeOrg]

@jeddelrosario, Great question!! Even with spasticity, I believe movement is necessary. Spasticity is the result of an overactive and abnormal spinal stretch reflex. We try and retrain the brain through repetitive and meaningful movement (this includes attempting to retrain spasticity). We know that spasticity can worsen with certain movement, sneezing, yawning, cold, etc. However, we have to find a balance between the benefit of movement and worsening of symptoms. Because if you completely stop using your affected side, your brain will not prioritize the rebuilding of those neural pathways and ultimately, progress will stall. It may be good to have a conversation with your doctor (if you haven't already) on the medical management of spasticity. If that can get a bit more under control, then you can really focus on hitting movement and exercise 😊 I hope this answered your question!

[@jeddelrosario3283]

@@PostStrokeOrg Thank you for your answer. I will talk to my doctor and therapist soon and I'll bring up what you said.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Let me know how it goes☺️❤️

[@StephenArdent]

For example, holding my right arm across my chest, hand resting in a loose fist. I spent about 6 weeks in a rehab hospital. if you moved around in your wheelchair, which they had alarms, so you wouldn't try to stand alone. If you had arm problems it was common for your to fall off the arm rest and hang down. Within minutes a nurse would shout at you STEVE! WHERE IS YOUR ARM! and you'd look and quickly pull it inside the bounds of the wheelchair. It becomes habit to hold it close and in your peripheral vision.

[@mudduck754]

I'm using it without thinking about using it sometimes it works sometimes it doesn't and I push myself harder in a day than any therapist could in a week.. escape the hospital, after they told me I would never walk again and I told them no I'm leaving the hospital Friday I am walking out of here and I am taking your Walker with me. I made it back to my 29 ft trailer in the woods I live off the grid as I have for the last 20 years. Seems like I am unable to carry a 5-gallon gas can and work the Walker at the same time. So I went over to a two and a half gallon can . And I am using the small 20lb propane bottles. Those I can lift into place. And I upgraded the generator 2one with an electric start.

[@gracecotton9819]

I take my hat off to you. Such fortitude, well done.

[@jimmypangestu7083]

What should we do, if an affected side cannot move at all? My stroke has disabled my left side completely, my left leg still can move with very limited movement, but my left hand cannot move at all

[@benniepearsob5273]

Thanks I'm going to Try To Use my Non Effective Arm What should I do for a Weak Elbow Ms Elysie.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Sounds great! Glad to hear it❤️ I don't have an elbow specific workout but I do have an arm strengthening workout that work on both biceps and triceps you may find helpful: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIq2gIOjhd6botE

[@Mary-fn5rl]

Had a CVA in Dec. Now my left neglect side is getting weak. Got tendonitis of the ankle and shoulder is so sore. I was doing good. Is this normal. my left finger was bending DOWN SO I GOT AN ISOTONER gkovei I wear at night. It works great. Ss getting weak.

[@nikkiepperson7855]

Yes it definitely was a thing for a couple of years; however, I decided a while back to use affected side to cut on lights in my house. Now I need to add 2 more things.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

@nikkiepperson, That's great! Each thing you do is a step in the right direction 😊 Let me know what other things you decide on!

[@nikkiepperson7855]

@@PostStrokeOrg I forgot I always close/ open cabinet doors. Last thing is close dishwasher door. Those 3 things I can commit to this consistently!

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Love that!! Good on you for naming your 3 things☺️ keep me posted on how it goes!

[@nikkiepperson7855]

@@PostStrokeOrg you are helping me be more intentional and cognitive about my intentions. Ty for all you do!

[@PostStrokeOrg]

You are so welcome! ❤️

[@cormethakitchen9075]

I can move but it not as great like b4 I'm wondering if I should still do it like for instance my foot not responding I can use my hand well I think 🤔 because I'm cooking etc...but the foot

[@frankleah5137]

Do that every time with the bathroom handle but am guilty of moving the affected side with the good side, will work harder, thank you.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

@frankleah, That's okay! As long as the affected side is moving, you're good 😊 It's a process, not a destination. ❤️

[@xmax1212]

my problem is numbness. 3 year later.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

I'm sorry you're still experiencing numbness. Have you talked with your doctor about any treatments or medications that might help?

[@cjnthn]

This is incredibly difficult for me as my unaffected side is my dominant side..

[@StunningMeDesigns]

My issue is I struggle writing. I can copy what I see but I can’t seem to write my own thoughts down. I’m missing something in the middile bc if my mind can relay the message to copy why can’t my mind relay the message to write what I’m thinking? Does this make sense to you?

[@brownmacneal8228]

I am a stroke survivor and I have challenges with my vision and balance my left side is affected and I'm left handed please send me the information on donating

[@taminewcomb]

I paraplegic. I have babies my right hand and don't use it. I have been practicing again and coming up on 2 yr mark June 30th. Do you have exercises for parapeligic

[@PostStrokeOrg]

@TammyNewcomb, Thank you for commenting. I have a lot of different exercise videos you may find helpful. You can check my Stroke Recovery Exercises playlist!

[@oksanabyelykh4117]

I am exercising in pain in my arm and hand and I am getting worse more spasticity. What should I do? Please Thanks

[@sandyparis2688]

I had a Total Knee Replacement in January, then had a stroke the last week in April. So I had several weeks of physical therapy for both. What I haven’t’ been able to do is ride a bike outside. How soon is this possible?

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Oh my word, you've had a lot going on this year. I hope your recovery is going well. Thank you for sharing your experience. Unfortunately, without being your treating therapist I can't accurately answer that question. Generally, if talking about a traditional 2-wheeled bike, my answer would be when/if any balance issues have resolved, if any visual are present that they are compensated for allowing for fairly normal vision, and if you are safe enough to ride without falling. I hope that helps! ❤️

[@shubhamysdav-lc3mt]

hi mam i m 24 yers old i mgot stroke and now suffered from keft side perelysed my leg is now ok i can walk independently but my handnot workin in fingers extensor power is come vut flexors not working any advice plz maam

[@charesahulsey8982]

I’ve got right side numbest from my stroke in 2022. I’m doing better but I need to walk without limping. I’m trying to walk smooth again. It’s because I can’t feel anything I think it’s harder to walk. My arm and hand is better but I have certain movement problems.

[@cymaticatom]

how do i know if i have learnd npn use or just simply have paralysis?

[@rosalielauranilla8806]

My hand and arm is good and i can use it but the problem is my feet and leg i feel heavy sometimes and painful

[@RhinaTamayo-yq6zh]

Hi I want to help my brother he suffered an stroke on the back and had surgery he lost his balance

[@lorisutton6200]

How do u use something that doesnt work?

[@yaronkl]

thank you. but.. I can't do anting with my affected arm. not straughten it no use any finger. it's pretty dire.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

You may find my videos on mirror therapy and mental practice helpful. They can be used even if you don't have any movement at all! Mirror therapy explanation: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mWnFiatnpaaSf9k Mirror therapy workout: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6vapIFqadyEmLM Mental practice: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mXiaiYV7pcpgmbM

[@unwoke1652]

I sometimes cannot swallow fluids and then blackout. This came after my 9th stroke and changed in some ways after my 12th stroke, The last 4 were basal ganglia due to large blood clots and AFib. Why can I swallow food, but not water? Why do water get hard in my oesophagus and cause me to faint?

[@PostStrokeOrg]

I'm so sorry to hear about your recurrent strokes. I'd guess that you've had speech therapy at some point in the past. I'd highly recommend you get a speech therapy evaluation and swallow study. They will be able to assess what's going on and create a plan of care to address this issue. If you don't have access to speech therapy, please tell your doctor about this!

[@tinam2696]

I can move my affected side (except limited when it comes to fine motor skills), it is THE PAIN. My 6 month "anniversary" is on 9/8. I don't understand why the pain is WORSE & not getting better 😞 I DO use my affected side though (the house & dishes do not clean themselves). I do exercises everyday with you too. Still not clear if REGULAR exercise or MIRROR THERAPY is best for me. Sorry, so much...I am frustrated.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

I’m so sorry that you’re dealing with this. No need to apologize, it sounds incredibly frustrating. If you haven’t already, talk to your doctor about pain reduction meds or strategies. If you pain feels like burning, tingling, or aching and/or you have pain in response to normally non painful stimuli (like light touch or pressure) it could be worth asking if you’re dealing with something called Central Post Stroke Pain. Again, so sorry you’re dealing with this❤️

[@tinam2696]

@@PostStrokeOrg Thank you for your time & response ♥️

[@sajanninan4520]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@PostStrokeOrg]

❤️

[@BaiGazuke]

I am right handed. My left body is the affected side. it's hard to use it ;(

[@rectomapa1797]

Can you help me what exercise i have to do. I do apreciate if you will help me

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Are there any particular movements that are difficulty for you that you’d like to work on? I have many different videos on my channel addressing various movements☺️

[@rectomapa1797]

@@PostStrokeOrg if im moving shoulder its hard for me its feel like heavy

[@pamweigelt6734]

My problem is I have no movement of right arm other a little shoulder movement. I have to use left arm to assist my right arm movement.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

@pamweigelt6734 Start with that shoulder movement! And if you have to use your left arm to assist, that's okay. Just attempt to actively move your right arm while assisting with your left. ❤️

[@Pure_KodiakWILD_Power]

Miss Stradivarius 🎻 😂❤️

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Hahahah you know me💁🏻‍♀️❤️

[@nerissamatel8236]

I don't used my affected side but when i cook or wash the dishes, i am amazed because i can use it much often. Thanx for your videos💖

[@PostStrokeOrg]

You are so welcome! ❤️Thank you for taking the time to share your experience!

[@animamartins1102]

I am taking care of my mom-in-law to recover from stroke. I would like to help her to walk again, use her affected hand, talk ect. It's been six months since she had a stroke.

[@PostStrokeOrg]

I'm sorry to hear about your mother-in-law. I hope you and your family are doing okay during this transition. I'd recommend reaching out to her doctor or therapist to get some recommendations for her specific situation ❤️

[@pwdsinglemomraketera]

What if the affected hand has no totally movement,?

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Great question! If your arm or shoulder has any movement, focus on those areas first! And if you have no movement whatsoever on your affected side, you may want to consider my mirror therapy video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6vapIFqadyEmLM Or my mental practice video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mXiaiYV7pcpgmbM

[@minakshisaini7451]

Am 10 months post stroke.. Can't move my hand.. Can close but cannot open.. What to do with it don't know 😢😢

[@legendary8838]

I in the same boat and it’s been 2 years

[@carmella88]

Which side ? And could u speak after the stroke

[@minakshisaini7451]

@@carmella88 its left side. Yes can speak properly

[@raffymanangat3142]

Can I walk again after 5yrs of my stroke,right of my body?

[@carmella88]

Did u have any memory loss from ur stroke

[@christophertaylor7647]

Excpt i have zero use of my left hand or arm after a year of therapy and nothing

[@sylviavakalutulawa8138]

Is there any way i can contact you ? So happy to have discovered your channel. I haven't recovered well.

[@mjaylith5232]

Hi, it's been almost 3 yrs since my stroke, and i like your video but, do people really need post it notes?! Gosh, I'm not being rude but I spend almost every min of everyday thinking about when I could use my rt hand. From the moment I get up, from brushing my teeth, to combing my hair, and only after what seems like forever, I still can't do it. Keep making the videos....there is not enough help out there.

[@hisinspirations]

I have developed neglect of affected side which leaves bruising

[@PostStrokeOrg]

I'm so sorry. Neglect is a whole other beast. I did make a video about it a while ago with some strategies to help compensate for it and to improve it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJTUmaeJnseYbZI

[@legendary8838]

It’s so difficult to use my hand when I can’t open my hand to open doors or pick things up in a fist like my phone or remote. My fingers always tend to curl back up like a 🤜🏿 right after I stretch them to do an activity. I can do very simple things but nothing that makes me feel like I’m making actual progress or forming new pathways

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Like I mention in the video, it’s okay if you don’t have a ton of functional movement yet. Even if you just try the movement or move your arm/shoulder if you can’t open your hand will help start rebuilding those brain pathways❤️

[@florencebugembe]

I used to open doors even the fridge door with my fisted hand and continued to open nonetheless. Now my hand is about 80 percent open. Tip think about the movement before you do it

[@PostStrokeOrg]

Great advice! Thank you for sharing❤️

[@legendary8838]

@@florencebugembe I’ll definitely start doing that and develop patience doing that also thanks 🙏🏾

[@aslamkhan-wf4fx]

Same is happening with me and I'm doing my physcio regularly not much improvement

[@maribelortiz5294]

It's hard to un learn non use when you're a disabled single mom of 3. I don'thave the luxury of wasting time to make the un effective side move. I want to do what Ihave to do so I can quickly sit down.

[@etherealdeal1792]

Praying for u

[@mariedor6076]

What someone who having a stroke One side weak and her face is swelling and turning.

[@andrinoegs4653]

Saya berharap tidak ada stroke di dunia ini untuk selamanya

[@dmyates4762]

How am I supposed to use something that's paralyzed???

[@PostStrokeOrg]

@dmyates4762 You can start with techniques like mirror therapy, active visualization, and mental practice that don't require any movement! I actually have videos on each of these in my stroke recovery exercise playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLCFErTBkcJJjDB4jkKEvcZg7V5H0dXZEO

[@benniepearsob5273]

Ms Elyse

[@rectomapa1797]

Im 4years stroke till now i cannot walk my arm shoulder its like im robbot

[@PostStrokeOrg]

I’m so sorry to hear about your experience. ❤️Has any intervention been helpful for you?

[@crystalboyd7455]

Seizures stole my gains

[@PostStrokeOrg]

@crystalboyd, I'm so sorry 😔

[@Mary-fn5rl]

That's so sad. Make sure you get sleep and no stress. Harder than it seems. 3 months after my cva tore my totatot cuff. Thank God ut wasn't on the dominate side. Good luck to you.