Progressive Functional Recovery Following A Rehabilitation Plateau in a Patient with Severe Cerebrovascular Injury Receiving Integrative Supportive Care: A Case Report

Abstract Background A severe ischemic stroke complicated by a subarachnoid hemorrhage frequently results in persistent neurological deficits and long-term disability. Once a patient reaches an apparent rehabilitation plateau in the chronic stage, conventional recovery progress often slows or halts entirely. This case report describes a progressive, multi-domain functional recovery in a chronic stroke patient following the introduction of an integrative supportive protocol. Case Presentation A 63-year-old female presented with severe chronic neurological deficits resulting from an arterial ischemic stroke and concomitant nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage sustained in early September, 2025. Her co-morbidities included left homonymous hemianopsia, hemineglect syndrome, aphasia, Type II diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. After several months of standard hospitalization and multidisciplinary conventional rehabilitation (physical and occupational therapy), her functional progress plateaued, and formal therapy services were concluded. Interventions An integrative supportive regimen—consisting primarily of Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM)-guided acupuncture utilizing Wu Yun Liu Qi principles alongside targeted nutritional optimization—was initiated in mid-February, 2026, and maintained over a three-month evaluation period. Results Over the course of the integrative intervention, the patient demonstrated profound and evolving improvements across multiple neurological domains. Notable recoveries included the restoration of voluntary head and ocular rotation toward the neglected left side, improved speech production (emerging vocalizations, whispers, and short phrases), enhanced emotional responsiveness, and refined upper-extremity coordination during feeding tasks. Postural stability and trunk control improved significantly; the patient advanced from complete dependence on chair back support to achieving an independent, spontaneous upright sitting posture. Cumulative assisted standing tolerance progressed from an inability to stand to maintaining a standing posture for approximately one hour with intermittent rest. Furthermore, improving metabolic and neuromuscular indicators allowed the treating physician to successfully adjust or discontinue three prescription medications (baclofen, metformin, and tamsulosin). Conclusion This case demonstrates that structured integrative care combining CCM acupuncture and nutritional support may facilitate continued neurofunctional adaptation and clinical recovery during the chronic stage of severe cerebrovascular injury, even after an apparent plateau in conventional rehabilitation. Further controlled clinical research is warranted.