“GENDER-RELATED FEATURES OF FUNCTIONAL RECOVERY AFTER LEFT AND RIGHT HEMISPHERE STROKES: CLINICAL AND REHABILITATION ANALYSIS”

Аннотация

This article examines the gender-related features of functional recovery processes following strokes in the left and right cerebral hemispheres from clinical and rehabilitation perspectives. The study analyzes the dynamics of recovery, severity of neurological symptoms, and differences in rehabilitation effectiveness between male and female patients after stroke. The importance of an individualized approach in clinical and rehabilitation practice is highlighted, and recommendations for developing rehabilitation programs that consider gender factors are provided. The article serves as a scientific and practical foundation aimed at improving recovery outcomes and enhancing health restoration measures after stroke. Keywords: stroke, left hemisphere, right hemisphere, functional recovery, gender differences, rehabilitation, neurological symptoms, individualized approach, clinical analysis, post-stroke recovery. Introduction. Stroke is one of the leading neurological disorders worldwide that causes disability and mortality. This pathology mainly results from an acute disruption of cerebral blood flow, significantly reducing patients’ quality of life. The https://scientific-jl.org/obr Выпуск журнала №-70 166 Часть–5_ июня–2025 ОБРАЗОВАНИЕ НАУКА И ИННОВАЦИОННЫЕ ИДЕИ В МИРЕ 2181- 3187 post-stroke recovery process is complex and multi-staged, closely linked to the patient’s functional status, psychological well-being, and ability to return to daily life activities. In recent years, the importance of an individualized approach during post-stroke rehabilitation has increased. In addition to patients’ age, stroke type and location, and pre-existing comorbidities, gender has been identified as a significant factor influencing recovery dynamics. Studies show that strokes occurring in the left and right cerebral hemispheres manifest differently in male and female bodies, with distinct behaviors and responses during the recovery process. This article provides an in-depth clinical and rehabilitation analysis of gender- related features in post-stroke functional recovery. The aim of the study is to identify differences between men and women following left and right hemisphere strokes and to develop evidence-based recommendations to enhance rehabilitation effectiveness. This approach contributes to achieving better clinical outcomes when working with stroke patients in practical medicine. Literature Review. In recent years, scientific research focusing on the clinical course of stroke and the post-stroke recovery process has been rapidly advancing. In particular, the gender-related aspects of functional recovery after stroke and how the localization of the stroke lesion (left or right hemisphere) affects the recovery process are considered important scientific and practical issues. Both international and local literature have repeatedly confirmed that clinical symptoms differ depending on whether the stroke is located in the left or right cerebral hemisphere. For example, left hemisphere strokes mainly result in speech impairments (aphasia), loss of calculation and writing skills, whereas right hemisphere strokes are associated with disturbances in spatial orientation, attention, and visuomotor coordination (Kertesz, 1982; Heilman & Valenstein, 2011). These distinctions highlight the need for an individualized approach in choosing rehabilitation methods. Regarding the role of gender in post-stroke recovery, several studies exist. Some authors emphasize that functional recovery after stroke occurs more slowly in women, https://scientific-jl.org/obr Выпуск журнала №-70 167 Часть–5_ июня–2025 ОБРАЗОВАНИЕ НАУКА И ИННОВАЦИОННЫЕ ИДЕИ В МИРЕ 2181- 3187 but their long-term outcomes tend to be more stable compared to men (Gall et al., 2012; Di Carlo et al., 2003). Although men tend to regain motor activity faster, they often face greater difficulties with psychological adjustment. Moreover, the literature indicates that gender differences directly influence the effectiveness of post-stroke rehabilitation programs. Women’s emotional responses and levels of motivation, and men’s predominance in physical activity demands, need to be considered when developing rehabilitation strategies (Bushnell et al., 2014). Although local research on this topic is relatively limited, practical observations conducted in some neurological clinics confirm the presence of gender-related differences and their impact on the rehabilitation process. This further underscores the necessity of investigating this issue with thorough scientific research. Thus, a review of the existing literature shows that a comprehensive study of the roles of the left and right hemispheres, as well as gender-specific features of recovery, is crucial for improving clinical practice and rehabilitation outcomes. This article aims to fill this scientific gap and contribute to providing modern, individualized medical care based on evidence. Results and Discussion. According to clinical