arms - push ups

The exercise I am introducing today is a repeat of an exercise I did soon after my release from the hospital(s). It addresses my affected side & works my ENTIRE ARM & HAND.

The reason I like this exercise is that it builds strength & mobility throughout my entire ARM & HAND. It really builds the muscle (memory) in my shoulder, all the way down to my fingers.  Like I’ve said many times before, many post-stroke persons are not limited by actual strength, but by the loss of muscle memory provided by some of the brain’s most elementary functions. Think of these exercises as brain games just as much as strength/mobility activities & you will be on your way to independence in no-time!

If you are just starting out - post-stroke - you will probably need someone to support your movement and help when necessary. As I have said before, even if you have reached the point of physical independence after your stroke, it is still nice to have someone supporting you emotionally and mentally through these exercises.

INSTRUCTIONS

1.    Work with a mat on the floor to provide cushion.

2.    Place your knees evenly beneath your hips & your hands evenly beneath your shoulders.

3.    Push up & down with as much weight pressing on the affected arm as possible (in my case, the right). When pushing down, bring your nose as close to the mat as possible. And when pushing up, push up as high as possible while keeping your feet & hands on mat.

4.    Repeat push-up process at least 10 times to start, gradually working your way up to 15, then 20, then 25 & really (if you’re up for it!) 50.

Be sure to check out my Instagram posts at “poststrokepeg.” God Bless You, Peg

“Have yourself a merry little Christmas.” -- as Judy Garland once said

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