What is a common functional limitation faced by clients post-stroke?

Difficulty with speech, commonly referred to as aphasia, is a frequent functional limitation seen in clients after a stroke. This condition arises due to damage in areas of the brain responsible for language processing and communication. Aphasia can manifest in various ways, including difficulty in speaking, understanding spoken language, reading, or writing. The type and severity of speech difficulties can depend on the location and extent of the brain injury.

While increased reflexes may occur after a stroke because of neural pathway disruptions, they do not represent a functional limitation in communication directly. Enhanced muscle strength is typically not a post-stroke outcome, as individuals often experience weakness or paralysis in certain limbs. A normal gait pattern is less common among stroke survivors, who frequently have balance issues or mobility challenges due to the neurological impairments caused by the stroke. Thus, difficulty with speech stands out as a significant hurdle for many clients post-stroke, impacting their ability to communicate effectively with others.