Dr. Naci Yosunkaya

The goal of rehabilitation after a stroke, traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury is to increase the person's independence in daily life as much as possible. Therefore, the program focuses on daily functions, not just muscle strength.

In the evaluation, walking, balance, manual skills, self-care and communication are considered separately. Goals are set in a concrete and measurable manner. For example, being able to sit without support or walk a certain distance.

The program is re-evaluated at regular intervals. The rate of progression varies from person to person. Therefore, targets are not kept constant, but are updated according to achievements. The family's participation in the process is decisive in maintaining the gains in the home environment.

Lymphedema is swelling that develops in the arm or leg due to the accumulation of lymph fluid between the tissues. One of the most common causes is removal of lymph nodes or radiation therapy during cancer treatment.

In the early stages, swelling may increase during the day and decrease with rest. As it progresses, it becomes permanent and hardening of the skin occurs. Therefore, early detection is important for the course of treatment.

The basic approach to management is complex excretory therapy: it consists of manual lymphatic drainage, bandaging, skin care and exercise. After this period, maintenance is provided with pressure clothing. Maintaining skin integrity and avoiding infection are integral parts of the process.

Spasticity is the involuntary increase in muscle tension following brain or spinal cord injury. It makes movement difficult, can cause pain, and may restrict joint movement over time.

Not every spasticity requires treatment. In some patients, increased muscle tone helps standing. Therefore, the decision is made by looking at whether spasticity facilitates function.

Stretching and positioning, exercise program, splints, oral medication and applications for selected muscles are used in the treatment. The approach is determined individually and carried out together with the rehabilitation program. No method alone is sufficient.