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Health Corbin quickly ascertained that Reinhardt had suffered an Ischemic stroke .
An Ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke and is caused by a blood clot in the brain or in surrounding blood vessels .
According to Reinhardt , the doctors moved like “ a well-oiled machine ” and worked rapidly to administer clotbusting medication .
Reinhardt noted that he felt as though God had protected him by placing him nearby the hospital prior to the onset of his stroke .
He said , “ Looking back on it , I am so thankful that God placed me at that restaurant before my stroke . I know that all the prayers for me helped my recovery as well .”
Reinhardt suffered his stroke in late
January of this year . Now , just a few months later in April , he has regained full control of his right arm and leg .
Reinhardt largely credits his fast recovery with the efficiency of Baptist Health Corbin staff , citing that their quick action likely saved him from long-term disability .
Within 48 hours after his stroke , Reinhardt was able to sign his name , albeit a little “ sloppy .”
Health outcomes for stroke patients are often dependent upon how long the stroke was left untreated .
The difference between 4 hours and 8 hours can be monumental , especially if the stroke is affecting vital areas of the brain like the brain stem .
Reinhardt , 60 , did not consider himself likely to have a stroke .
As a testament to his recovery ,
Reinhardt was proud to share that he is able to play his two favorite instruments like he used to — the bass guitar and the drums .
Immediately following his release from the hospital , Reinhardt began physical therapy , with the addition of attempting to play his bass and drums .
He said , “ I could prop my arm up on my acoustic bass and play , but I started to use the electric bass more because there was no arm support , making my arm work harder and helping it get back into shape ... On the drums , I had to retrain my leg to hit the bass pedal ... and eventually it all came together again .”
Now , looking ahead , Reinhardt hopes to continue playing music and working with young men at the Redemption Road Men ’ s Rehabilitation facility in Barbourville .
SPECIAL FOCUS
What to know about stroke
PHOTO COURTESY BAPTIST HEALTH CORBIN Dr . Murali Kolikonda is neurologist for Baptist Health that specializes in the treatment of cerebrovascular disease and strokes .
BY ROBERT HALCOMB Staff Writer Stroke can be a devastating ailment , causing damage to the brain and the ability of one to function as they once were able to .
In the United States , strokes are the fifth leading cause of death and the number one cause of long-term disability .
Strokes can occur in two different ways : Ischemic and Hemorrhagic .
An Ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot prevents adequate blood flow to the brain .
Conversely , a Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel bursts and also renders the brain unable to receive blood .
According to Dr . Murali Kolikonda , a neurologist with Baptist Health Corbin , about 80 % of strokes can be categorized as Ischemic , with the remaining 20 % being attributed to