Most stroke rehab programs last several weeks to several months after you leave the hospital. The program consists of physical therapy, occupational therapy and, if needed, speech therapy. Physical therapy helps you regain muscle strength and teaches you ways to move safely with weak or paralyzed muscles. Occupational therapy helps you relearn ways of eating, dressing, and grooming. Speech therapy may help you if you have problems with swallowing, speaking or understanding words.
Recovery depends on the extent of the brain injury.
Some improvement may occur rapidly within the first few days and weeks after the stroke. Other improvement may occur more gradually. If recovery does not begin within 1 to 2 weeks of the stroke, some muscle movement and speech may not return. However, some people continue to regain speech and muscle strength up to 1 year after a stroke. By the end of the rehab program, your doctor can tell you more accurately what further recovery you can expect.