In the United States today, strokes account for one out of every 19 deaths. That means that every year, nearly 800,000 people suffer a stroke, and 200,000 of them die, killing one American on average every four minutes. While treatment for stroke has largely relied on drugs and surgery in the past, neurology is presenting patients with therapeutic care instead. The even more specialized field of Chiropractic Neurology has shown to be a fast and effective treatment option for stroke survivors, free on drugs and invasive techniques.
Strokes come in two forms: those related to a hemorrhage in the brain and those related to a lack of blood to an area of the brain, the latter known as an ischemic stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control, around 87% of strokes suffered are ischemic strokes. While there are several factors that play into the likelihood that a person may suffer a stroke from ethnicity and age to geographical location, there are common risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and smoking, to name a few. Many of these factors are impacted by lifestyle and can therefore be managed, drastically reducing the risk of stroke.
While the prevention of a stroke is the optimal goal, strokes do happen. Once a stroke has occurred, it is crucial to find the best information and care, as soon as possible, to rehabilitate and also to reduce the risk of another stroke. Stroke sufferers are 40% more likely to suffer another stroke within the first five years of the initial stroke making it imperative to get the facts and seek out the best treatment plan. Resources like the National Stroke Association are filled with information, facts and help for stroke patients and their loved ones.
Today, research studies abound with new forms of possible stroke treatments. One such study involved giving stroke patients a caffeine-alcohol mixture that is equivalent to about four to six cups of coffee. This unconventional treatment has shown reduced brain damage and improved recovery in study participants. Additional options for improved stroke therapies, with the ultimate goal of staving off brain damage, have been presented with striking results and major advantages at this years’ International Stroke Conference.
While many treatment plans can be costly and dependent on drug therapies and other traditional methods that leave the patient struggling to regain good quality of life, Chiropractic care and more specifically, Chiropractic Neurology is an individualized course of treatment that centers on the patient’s specific needs. Just as no two patients are alike, neither are their medical needs. Chiropractic Neurology is science-based care that utilizes cutting-edge methods that are drug-free and non-invasive, through harnessing the power of the brain and its ability to heal leading to maximum recovery, improved quality of life and many times in a much faster time period than other traditional methods.
For a complete list of stroke risks, resources and information about stroke advocacy, please click here to visit the National Stoke Association’s webpage.
If you or a loved one has suffered a stroke and would like to know more about how Chiropractic Neurology can help, please contact Dr. Marc Ellis today at the Georgia Chiropractic Neurology Center.