Physical Therapy Helps Stroke Survivor

After surviving 2 strokes in her early 40s, in 2018 and 2020, Roxanna Cain continued to experience physical difficulties. She learned to adapt to the ongoing challenges she faced, including having trouble with balance. She also couldn’t stand upright after bending over.

In summer 2024, after sitting on her bed in an awkward position, her leg swelled up and was painful. So she saw her primary care physician, Charles Keener, MD, family medicine physician at The University of Kansas Health System in Great Bend. Dr. Keener diagnosed sciatica and referred her to physical therapy services at St. Rose Medical Pavilion.

“At my first physical therapy appointment, the care team immediately eased me in and helped me feel comfortable,” Roxanna says. “They’re always glad to see their patients.”

Melanie Schroeter, physical therapist, recognized that Roxanna was experiencing the issues remaining after her strokes. Melanie was able to add exercises to help Roxanna with those in her twice-a-week appointments.

“When she started therapy, Roxanna wasn’t able to bend down and pick something up from the ground without falling. She lacked the coordination of her muscles in her legs and back to do this because of her stroke,” Melanie says. “She started by performing tasks that required her to bend 2 to 4 inches and now she is able to pick things up off the floor! I tailored her therapy sessions to what she needed help with each time she came in.”

In fact, Roxanna says, she started going to the gym a few years ago but was limited to walking on the treadmill because of her balance and other challenges. Today, she is riding the stationary bike, building strength in her legs by doing leg presses, and she enjoys water exercise 3 days a week.

“I was a navy brat and have always loved swimming and water,” Roxanna says. “Now, when I go to water classes, I don’t have to hold on to the side of the pool.”

Roxanna put all her exercises in a notebook and was diligent about doing her exercises at home. She is dedicated to maintaining the progress she’s made by continuing to do the exercises Melanie gave her.

“My balance is amazing now,” Roxanna says. “I can stand on 1 leg with no issues. I get in the bathtub without assistance. Going up or down curbs isn’t a problem anymore. And she taught me how to walk in my hiking boots again!”

In the midst of her 5 months of physical therapy treatment, Roxana also experienced some heart issues that resulted in her wearing a monitor for 2 weeks and having a procedure in Wichita.

“Melanie and the team supported me through all the heart issues and always made sure I was ready before starting any appointment,” Roxanna says. “It helps when you have people like them to help you through that.”

Roxanna says she’s doing more now than she ever thought she’d be able to do. She has a 50cc scooter that she’s looking forward to riding again when she’s able.

“Roxanna was always up for any challenge in therapy including riding a stationary bike, which she hadn’t been able to do since her stroke because of her lack of coordination,” says Melanie. “She worked really hard at doing her home exercises between therapy sessions, and her determination is what allowed her to get where she is. She deserves the credit!”

“My normal has changed,” she says. “And all the credit goes to my care team. They were there beside me through everything. I wouldn’t be here without them.”