7 Stages Of Stroke Recovery

Recovering from a stroke is a journey, and every person moves at their own pace. While no two recoveries are the same, many stroke survivors can go through similar stages as they regain movement and strength.

The 7 stages of stroke recovery, based on The Brunnstrom Approach, is a widely recognised framework outlining the typical progression of muscle control and motor functions for stroke recovery and rehabilitation. These seven stages provide a structured understanding of the process, helping patients, clinicians and caregivers anticipate key milestones along the way.

It’s important to remember that every stroke is different and every stroke recovery timeline will vary. Not all patients will follow the 7 stages of stroke recovery, depending on the severity of their stroke, along with many other factors. For example, many patients may not start at stage 1, some patients may regain function in one area but not another, while others may plateau at a stage and not regain full recovery.

A specialist rehabilitation and therapy programme is one of the most important factors in helping you recover as well as possible in regaining movement following a stroke.

The 7 Stages of Stroke Recovery are outlined below.

1. Flaccidity (No Movement)

Immediately following a stroke the body needs time to heal. At this stage, the affected muscles may feel weak or completely limp, and movement might not be possible yet. Therapy and gentle movement exercises can help keep the body become more flexible by increasing sensory input to the brain.

2. Spasticity Appears (First Signs of Movement)

As the brain starts reconnecting with the muscles, the patient might notice stiffness or tightness which is caused by an increase in muscle tone. This is called spasticity, and it’s a sign that the body is trying to regain control. While movements may still be difficult, this stage marks real progress. It means that some connection exists between the brain and affected muscles.

3. Increased Spasticity (Small Movements)

At this stage it might seem like your muscles are worsening but it is a sign of continued recovery and the connections between your brain and muscles are improving. Therapy and specialised technologies to support rehabilitation help guide the body toward smoother, more controlled motions.

4. Spasticity Decreases and Voluntary Movement Begins (Gaining Control)

The stiffness starts to ease, and movement becomes a little easier. At this point, you may be able to move your arm or leg in more natural ways, and therapy focuses on improving coordination and strength. Repetition is key to helping the brain relearn controlled movement. Robotic therapy devices can assist in learning repetitive movement such as exoskeletons (wearable robotic suits) and anti-gravity machines to reduce the effects of gravity, putting less strain on muscles and joints.

5. Return of Complex Movement  (Getting Stronger)

Now, movements are becoming more controlled, and tasks like reaching, walking, or grasping objects, such as brushing your hair or holding cutlery, feel more natural. You might still notice some stiffness, but your body is learning how to move more smoothly. Occupational therapy will support you with relearning fine motor skills. Virtual reality can also help relearn movement using technologies including MindMotionGo and Tyromotion Therapy. Hydrotherapy will also benefit patients, making it easier to move weak or stiff limbs, in a specialised, heated hydrotherapy pool.

6. Spasticity Disappears (Near Normal Movement)

By now, most movements are controlled and fluid. You may still have minor challenges with coordination or fine motor skills, but daily activities become much easier. You and your therapists can focus on continuing to build on strength and coordination.

7. Full, or Near Full Recovery Of Normal Movement if Possible

At this final stage, some people regain most, or even all, of their movement. However, it is important to recognise that not all patients will reach this stage. Some may still have weaknesses and long lasting changes that will affect their daily lives. However, with continued therapy and rehabilitation, they can live as independently and confidently as possible.

Your Recovery Journey

Our specialist rehab team understands that every stroke survivor’s progress is unique and not all will progress through each of the seven stages.  However, rehabilitation plays a vital role in improving the chances of recovery from stroke.

The seven stages of stroke recovery is a framework for muscle and movement recovery. Other effects from stroke, such as speech difficulties, swallowing issues and cognitive deficits, are supported by a multi-disciplinary team of clinical experts.

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital our experienced stroke team include physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech therapists, who will work together to create a treatment plan personalised to each patient’s needs.  

With a range of leading rehabilitation treatments and equipment available at our centre our goal is to help you regain your independence and quality of life as much as possible.

If you would like to find out more about our inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programmes following a stroke call us on 01296 678800 to speak to one of our friendly team or complete our enquiry form.

Web Editor