What is a Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident-CVA)?

Experience the Benefits of Physical Therapy at Empowerize Therapy Center

A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is suddenly interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. This can happen when a blood vessel becomes blocked (ischemic stroke) or when a vessel ruptures and causes bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Without immediate treatment, brain cells begin to die, leading to a wide range of possible neurological changes.

The effects of a stroke depend on the area of the brain involved and the severity of the injury. Common outcomes include weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding language, changes in vision, problems with balance or coordination, and cognitive or emotional challenges. Some people experience only mild, temporary symptoms, while others may face significant long‑term disabilities.

Although a stroke happens suddenly, recovery is an ongoing process. Early medical intervention, followed by rehabilitation therapies such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy, can greatly improve function and independence. Many individuals regain skills over time as the brain heals and adapts.

Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, but with prompt treatment, consistent therapy, and strong support, many people are able to rebuild their abilities and return to meaningful daily activities.

How Therapy Can Help

How Physical and Speech Therapy Help CVA Patients

Physical and speech therapy are two of the most important pillars of recovery after a stroke, helping individuals rebuild skills that may have been suddenly disrupted. Physical therapy focuses on restoring movement, strength, and coordination. After a stroke, many people experience weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, difficulty walking, or challenges with balance. A physical therapist guides the brain and body to reconnect through repetitive, purposeful movement. Over time, this helps improve mobility, reduce muscle stiffness, and increase independence in everyday activities. Even small gains, like standing more steadily or taking smoother steps, can make a meaningful difference in a person’s confidence and quality of life.

Speech therapy addresses the communication and swallowing difficulties that often follow a stroke. Depending on the area of the brain affected, a person may struggle to find words, understand language, speak clearly, or manage the muscles needed for safe eating and drinking. A speech‑language pathologist helps rebuild these abilities through targeted exercises and strategies that strengthen the voice, improve comprehension, and support clearer expression. Therapy may also focus on cognitive‑communication skills such as memory, attention, and problem‑solving, which can be affected by stroke as well. For individuals who have lost the ability to speak, speech therapy can introduce alternative communication methods to help them stay connected with others.

Together, physical and speech therapy offer a pathway toward recovery that is both practical and deeply human. They help individuals regain control over their bodies and voices, rebuild independence, and re‑enter their daily lives with greater ease and dignity.

LSVT BIG & LSVT LOUD at Empowerize Therapy Center

At Empowerize Therapy Center, stroke rehabilitation is further strengthened by specialized programs known as LSVT BIG and LSVT LOUD.

These evidence‑based approaches are designed to help individuals move and communicate with greater confidence and efficiency. LSVT BIG focuses on teaching people to use larger, more intentional movements, which can be especially helpful for those who have developed smaller, slower, or more effortful movement patterns after a stroke. LSVT LOUD, on the other hand, helps individuals regain vocal strength and clarity by training them to use a stronger, more consistent voice.

Empowerize Therapy Center is proud to have clinicians who are fully certified in LSVT BIG and LSVT LOUD. Their expertise allows them to integrate these programs into personalized treatment plans, giving stroke survivors access to highly effective tools that support meaningful progress in mobility, communication, and overall quality of life.

Schedule Your First Appointment Today

Ready to start your journey to better health? Contact us today to schedule your first appointment with one of our expert therapists. We'll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your individual needs and goals.