Has heavy arm been a problem?
In October 2022 I had an ischemic stroke. I have been pretty lucky in that I've been able to pretty much live my life although not the same as before the stroke. The stroke affected my left side, primarily my left arm and hand. Since the stroke my arm has felt heavy. Like I've got a 20 LB weight strapped on it. It keeps getting worse it seems instead of better. My question is has anyone else experienced this symptom and if so did it get better how long did it last or is it still with you. If it did improve what were you able to do to improve it? I do exercises daily with my arm and hand and I have improved slightly the use of my hand and arm but it's still very heavy. The heaviness doesn't bother my leg as much although it gets a little heavier when I get tired. I have pretty good balance and am able to walk without a cane or walker but not very fast or long. I just turned 83 and I don't know if age much to do with my recovery time but I suspect it does. I would add that I was very active before my stroke.
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Hello, Pete, I had an ischemic stroke in 2022 also. From time to time, my left arm and leg feel very heavy still, to this day, like a 10# weight is attached. It's scary at times and I've often wondered if others experience the same. It will be interesting to see how others reply.
It's great that your leg doesn't get heavy and you can walk without a cane. I still use mine on days when my balance is off. Fortunately that's not very often.
I encourage you to contact your neurologist and ask for more in-depth information about the heaviness you're feeling. There might be something more that an occupational therapist can help you with, too. I certainly hope the weight lightens for you. Keep us posted!
I had a brain bleed three years ago and in my case heavy arm or leg comes and goes. I try to maintain arm flexability and strength with 8lb dumbells, core strength with modified planks , and overall balance and endurance with walking and (sort of) jogging. Every thing you do is PT - even shoes with laces. Don't give up on what you can do! Talkto your neurologist or PT. You are not alone.
g1315 Thanks for your reply. I keep doing exercises for my arm to try to reconnect it to my brain better. Hopefully over time the heaviness will diminish.
slowrunner1 Thanks for your comments. I don't give up and exercise every day hoping for some improvement.
Sounds good. I will be following the responses to your query. Hope to read helpful responses.
Live long and prosper .