For a client recovering from a cerebrovascular accident, which technique helps regain awareness of a paralyzed limb?

• A. Provide direct visual contact of the area via mirrors and grooming.
• B. Paint the affected limb with bright colors.
• C. Ignore the affected side during activities.
• D. Use electrical stimulation to the skin.

Answer: (A)

Visual feedback from mirror therapy helps the brain re-establish awareness of a paralyzed limb after a stroke. By placing a mirror so the patient can see the moving, intact limb reflected where the affected limb would be, the brain receives convincing visual input that the limb is present and moving. This visual-motor pairing can boost the patient’s awareness of the affected limb, improve body perception, and support neuroplastic changes that promote recovery. Painting the limb, ignoring the affected side, or using skin stimulation alone don’t provide the same meaningful visual cue or alter the brain’s representation of the limb.