Stroke

Cerebrovascular disease, one of the most prevalent and devastating diseases among adults, may arise from various sources, including disorders of the brain vasculature, cardiac and pulmonary disorders, and systemic and genetic diseases. Cerebrovascular disease encompasses a broad spectrum of disorders including stroke and transient ischemic attack. Regardless of the cause, the cerebrovascular accident can be either ischemic or hemorrhagic type. Diagnostic evaluation should include a careful and detailed history; bedside physical and neurological examinations; brain, heart, and vascular imaging; and laboratory investigations. In addition to covering the medical, surgical, and interventional strategies during the acute phase of stroke management, this chapter also provides an overview of the vascular and functional anatomy of the brain; the epidemiology, etiology, and pathophysiology of stroke; clinical features; and complications of stroke. A detailed outline of the physiotherapy management of both supratentorial and brainstem strokes is included.