| We all know that exercise is good for our bodies, | | | | Stroke occurs when there's lack of oxygen and |
| but researchers have now proven that the simple | | | | blood flow to the brain. The severity of the |
| exercise of walking can reinvigorate the mind, | | | | stroke's effects depends in part upon the part of |
| even after a setback as serious as stroke. | | | | the brain that was affected. Another factor is the |
| According to research done at Johns Hopkins, the | | | | volume and duration of the oxygen shortage. |
| University of Maryland, even individuals who | | | | Some are mildly affected and bounce back as if |
| suffered a stroke 20 years ago can improve both | | | | nothing had ever happened, while others never |
| their mobility and their brain function by the simple | | | | regain use of parts of their body, including the |
| exercise of walking. | | | | ability to speak. Others suffer from mental |
| In a test done with 70 stroke victims, | | | | confusion. |
| researchers found that walking on a treadmill for | | | | Many doctors believe that physical and speech |
| 40 minutes 3 times per day not only increased | | | | therapy must accomplish their results within the |
| their physical fitness, but also increased brain | | | | first six months following a stroke in order to |
| activity. In this test, participants were divided into | | | | have any positive effect. This study proved that |
| 2 groups. One group did stretching exercises and | | | | wrong, since some of the participants who saw |
| the other group walked - many with the aid of a | | | | increased brain activity had suffered their strokes |
| therapist or walking assistant. After 6 months the | | | | as much as 20 years prior to the study. |
| walking group shows significant gains, while the | | | | After considering this study, it follows that regular |
| stretching group showed little improvement in | | | | walking exercise should be beneficial to the brain |
| brain activity. | | | | function of those who have not suffered a |
| Stroke is the 3rd leading cause of death in the | | | | stroke. |
| United States, and for those fortunate enough to | | | | The next question: Can regular walking prevent |
| survive, both physical impairment and mental | | | | stroke from happening in the first place? |
| confusion can be the result. | | | | |