Stroke rehabilitation is a critical part of a successful recovery. Early rehabilitation, begun as soon as possible after the stroke, helps to reduce dependence on others. Most recovery occurs during the first 3 months after a stroke but may continue slowly over the next few years. For more information, see the topic Stroke Rehabilitation.

Half of the people who have a stroke lose some of their independence, and 20% are completely dependent on others for their care.⁴

New treatments

Carotid artery stenting can sometimes be used to open narrowed arteries to the brain in an effort to prevent stroke. Carotid artery stenting (also called cerebral percutaneous transluminal angioplasty) is similar to the procedure used to open narrowed arteries that supply blood to the heart (cardiac angioplasty). During this procedure, a vascular surgeon inserts a metal tube called a stent inside your carotid artery to increase blood flow in areas blocked by plaque.

Early studies show carotid artery stenting to be as effective as carotid endarterectomy in preventing stroke, heart attack, and other complications in people who are at high risk for stroke.¹⁷ Further studies are ongoing to clarify when carotid artery stenting should be used.

Other studies are under way regarding new methods for treating stroke.