Two Sides of the Same Stroke: Patient and Therapist Voices on Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Stroke Recovery
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Target Audience
Healthcare professionals.
Educational Need
According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is the 5th leading cause of death and is a major contributor to long‑term disability in the United States. Many clinicians are unfamiliar with the distinct types of strokes, including Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery (PICA) strokes, which affect balance, coordination, and vital functions due to cerebellar involvement. A PICA stroke occurs when the blood supply to a specific area of the brain, the cerebellum, is interrupted due to a blockage or rupture in the PICA artery.
Learning Objectives
- Identify what a Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery (PICA) stroke is and understand its common causes.
- Describe why a detailed physical and neurological assessment is important for creating safe and effective rehab plans.
- List and explain specific rehab techniques used by physical therapists to improve balance, strength, and mobility throughout recovery stages.
- Review the importance of collaboration between physical therapists, doctors, and family/support systems in maximizing recovery.
- Recognize the physical, emotional, and mental challenges patients may face during and after recovery, and how care can support them.
Speakers
Lisa Brekke, PT, DPT
Kinetic Edge Physical Therapy

Patrick Ford, PT, DPT, OCS
PICA Stroke Survivor and Rock Valley Physical Therapy
Terms of Use and Privacy Policy
Recording date: September 4, 2025
Date of original release: September 4, 2025
Most recent review/update: September 4, 2025
Termination date: September 3, 2027
Accreditation Statements
- MD: This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Iowa Medical Society (IMS). Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences (DMU) is accredited by the IMS to provide continuing medical education for physicians. DMU designates this enduring materials activity for 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
- DO: Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences (DMU) is accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) to provide osteopathic continuing medical education for physicians. DMU designates this activity for a maximum of 1.0 AOA Category 2-B credits and will report CME and specialty credits commensurate with the extent of the physician’s participation in this activity.
- DPM: Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences (DMU) is approved by the Council on Podiatric Medical Education as a provider of continuing education in podiatric medicine. DMU has approved this activity for a maximum of 1.0 continuing education contact hours.
- Other healthcare providers: This activity is designated for 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™.
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Educational Grants
No ineligible company provided financial support for this continuing education activity.
Disclosures
The speaker(s) will disclose if any pharmaceuticals, medical procedures, or devices discussed are investigational or unapproved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The activity director is responsible for determining educational content and selecting speakers.
Relevant to the content of this educational activity, the following individual(s) have no conflict(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.
- Lisa Brekke, PT, DPT - Speaker
- Patrick Ford, PT, DPT, OCS - Speaker
Disclaimer
The information provided in this activity is for continuing education purposes only. It is not a substitute for a healthcare provider's independent medical judgment regarding diagnostic and treatment options for a specific patient's medical condition.
Available Credit
- 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™
- 1.00 AOA Category 2B
- 1.00 CE Contact Hour(s)
- 1.00 CPME

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