Kirk Starts Rehabilitation Exercises After Stroke

CHICAGO (CBS/AP) -- Illinois Sen. Mark Kirk has started walking exercises on a treadmill as he continues his recovery from a stroke in January.

Dr. Richard Harvey, a medical director at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's Center, says the 52-year-old Republican is adapting well to the program. Kirk arrived at the center a week ago from the hospital where he had emergency surgery that included temporarily removing part of his skull to allow for swelling.

"Senator Kirk is adapting well to the rehabilitation program.  This week he started walking exercises on a treadmill and is performing an increasing number of routine tasks independently. We are pleased with his progress," Harvey said in a written statement issued to the media.

Doctors have said Kirk should make a full mental recovery, though they expect him to have limited movement on his left side.

Kirk had the stroke the weekend of Jan. 21.

He was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2010, winning the seat once held by President Barack Obama. Before that, he spent 10 years in the U.S. House.

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