Strategies for stroke rehabilitation - evidence based review of therapeutic methods
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Katedra Rehabilitacji i Fizjoterapii, Uniwersytet Medyczny im. K. Marcinkowskiego w Poznaniu, Poland
Submission date: 2021-06-13
Final revision date: 2021-08-29
Acceptance date: 2021-08-30
Publication date: 2025-11-26
Corresponding author
Dagna Dreczka
Katedra Rehabilitacji i Fizjoterapii, Uniwersytet Medyczny im. K. Marcinkowskiego w Poznaniu, ul. 28 czerwca 1956r. nr 135/147, 61-545, Poznań, Poland
Issue Rehabil. Orthop. Neurophysiol. Sport Promot. 2022;38(1)
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ABSTRACT
Introduction
Stroke is the leading cause of severe disability. The consequences of stroke depend on the location and size of the brain lesions. The symptoms may include: hemiparesis, swallowing disorders, speech disorders, disorders of cognitive functions, hemianopia, gait disturbances, spasticity, depression, reduction of independence in activities of everyday life. Due to the multitude of impaired functions after stroke, a comprehensive approach is required in rehabilitation.
Aim
The aim of the study was a concise evidence-based review of therapeutic methods that may be used in the course of rehabilitation after stroke.
Material and Methods
Studies and systematic reviews related to selected novel or commonly used stroke rehabilitation methods were chosen for evaluation using PubMed search engine. The research included articles published between 2002 and 2020.
Results
The time to start rehabilitation is important - according to the principle, the sooner the better. A comprehensive rehabilitation program requires an individual program of rehabilitation exercises, supported by physical modalities therapy as well as occupational therapy, speech-language therapy and neuropsychotherapy. Particular attention must be given to the methods for which there is evidence of effectiveness confirmed by scientific research, such as CIMT therapy, task-oriented training, mirror therapy, electrical stimulation, rTMS, robot-based training, and treadmill training.
Conclusions
The rehabilitation after stroke is effective when certain general conditions are fulfilled such as cooperation of multidisciplinary rehabilitation teams, early start, and long and intense course. The effect of post-stroke rehabilitation may be even better when certain methods are applied, bringing improvement mostly in motor function.