Strokes affect people in various ways. Each with a unique challenge.  As a result, there are many types of therapy. Now, there is a new therapy option for Oceanside Stroke Recovery members who are paralyzed on one side of their body. Stroke survivor and member, Rick Turner learned about mirror box therapy as an effective way to re-establish brain pathways that have been damaged during a stoke. He built the mirror box and donated it to the society’s lending library. Available to all members at no cost, the library contains many resources to help in ongoing therapy and recovery.

The device helps give the user a neural workout and can be effective in the way the brain responds to stimuli. This type of brain training is called neuroplasticity.  The device itself consists of a mirror that is positioned between the function and non-functional limb. The user looks at the reflection of the functional limb, while simultaneously hiding both actual limbs from their line of sight. Next the user performs exercises while watching the reflection of the intact limb move. Through the use of this artificial visual feedback it can be possible to relax or move the non-functional limb. Studies have found that this exercise can help rebuild neural pathways.

Oceanside Stroke Recovery Society has been providing therapy to stroke survivors and support to caregivers in Oceanside since 1986. This area includes Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Nanoose Bay, Coombs, Errington, Whiskey Creek and the surrounding communities.