Recognising the unique needs of stroke survivors, Allied Health teams at the Surgical, Treatment and Rehabilitation Service (STARS) sought funding for specialist equipment and cutting-edge sensory rehabilitation training critical to restoring touch and feeling, an often 'hidden' problem that can affect daily life more profoundly than visible motor weakness.

Up to 80% of stroke survivors experience sensory impairment - altered or lost touch or feeling - which can limit their functional capacity, independence and have a significant impact on wellbeing. When a person's ability to feel touch, temperature, pain and even body position is affected, it can create a range of problems, from issues with balance to burn injuries - even turning affectionate touch into physical pain. But with access to targeted sensory and motor rehabilitation, patients can rediscover not only touch and feeling, but their sense of purpose and quality of life.

With 12 Occupational Therapists now trained under a program which has been refined through ongoing feedback from patients and staff - stroke survivors now have access to a neurorehabilitation program described as ‘life-changing’. By optimising sensory recovery in the upper limbs, teams can help patients get back to the daily activities most important to them, rebuilding autonomy, purpose and overall wellbeing. When shared across Queensland’s rehabilitation and stroke networks - and ultimately embedded into routine stroke care statewide - the program could benefit over 1,000 patients each year.

“We are grateful for the Foundation’s support in helping the TPCH, RBWH and STARS Occupational Therapy teams deliver meaningful improvements in stroke survivor care. Patients are better informed, more engaged in their rehabilitation, and feel heard within the care process.”