Although it’s a simple question — can testosterone help in stroke recovery? — unfortunatelyit doesn’t have a simple answer. Like so many medical concerns and potential treatmentssome studies support testosterone’s potential to expedite stroke recoverywhile others challenge it.
At Viking Medical Centerwe see a vital part of our job as educating our clients about these discrepancieswhile keeping an eye on the horizon in order to alert you about future developments and advances.
Herewe give you a brief overview of the potential associated with testosterone and testosterone therapy.
Should I count on testosterone in my stroke recovery?
As you knowtestosterone is a sex hormone that plays a role in various physiological functionsincluding muscle and bone maintenanceas well as brain function.
Both testosterone and testosterone hormone replacement therapy have made headlines in recent yearswith conflicting information about testosterone therapy’s potential efficacy and safetyrelative to treating certain medical conditions.
For instancesome studies have explored the potential of testosterone to aid in stroke recoverybut the results are mixed and more research is needed to establish and confirm a clear link.
Just look at these journal titles… Study: Testosterone Supplementation Reduces Heart AttackStroke Risk by the Pharmacy Times on July 162021.
And then there’s Science Daily’s Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can increase men’s risk of stroke and heart attackpublished on July 182019.
As you can seein just two yearsthe science community switched positions on testosterone’s role in stroke and/or stroke therapy.
Todaythere is evidence suggesting that testosterone may have neuroprotective effects and could potentially influence recovery after a stroke. Some studies have shown that testosterone may have positive effects on neuroplasticitywhich is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself and form new neural connections.
A recent study by Harvard University suggests that testosterone therapy may be safe for men at risk for heart attack and stroke; howevernot enough is known about testosterone’s role following a stroke.
Clinical trials are ongoing to investigate the potential benefits of hormone therapyincluding testosteronein stroke recovery. This is why we alway urge our clients to consult with healthcare professionals and follow evidence-based medical advice when considering any form of hormone therapy.
As with any treatment or supplementationindividual responses to hormone therapy can varyand more research is needed to determine the optimal approaches and whether testosterone can be a safe and effective part of stroke rehabilitation.
Until the day comes when we have a definitive and lasting answerour team at Viking Medical Group is standing by to support you with transparent services and favorite products we trust.
Schedule your appointment today and get ready to get Viking strong!