Stroke Survivor Blog

Overindulgence on our trip to Florida increased Steve’s stroke risk and caused some serious consequences. We rented a scooter for Steve to use. This was a necessity because of his mobility deficits. But as a result, he did very little walking…maybe only 40 ft. a day going to and from the bathroom, which is much [...]

Last Monday was the last of 35 External Counter Pulsation (ECP) treatments Steve has undergone for congestive heart failure and angina. When each hour-long session was completed, he felt pretty good, and toward the end he was able to walk without a cane for about 275 feet just touching the wall for balance. His legs [...]

Spasticity in Steve’s big toe on his left foot was caused by the stroke, and has resulted in much pain. But, surprisingly, the spasticity has been greatly reduced by the non-invasive ECP/ EECP treatments he is undergoing (see Video). The toe was so spastic and painful that he wanted to cut his leg off. Then [...]

It’s been over two weeks since Steve started the ECP Heart Treatment to treat congestive heart failure, so I want to give you an update. He’s had nine one-hour treatments. The first ECP (external counter pulsation) treatment made his legs sore from the constant pumping of the cuffs. He was exhausted the rest of the [...]

My husband, Steve, will start an ECP heart treatment next week to increase the circulation of blood flow to his heart. ECP or External Counter Pulsation is a non-invasion therapy for the treatment of congestive heart failure and advanced angina pectoris.  When the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygenated blood, it sends a signal [...]

High blood pressure is the most important risk factor for stroke. Since Steve’s stroke in February 2008, his blood pressure has been averaging around 170/95. At times it was 214/104. He has a family history of high blood pressure and heart disease. But to be honest with you, neither one of us realized how much [...]

What are High Blood Pressure and Prehypertension? Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of arteries. Blood pressure rises and falls during the day. When blood pressure stays elevated over time, it is called high blood pressure. The medical term for high blood pressure is hypertension. High blood pressure is dangerous because [...]