Additional task-related practice improves mobility and upper limb function early after stroke: A randomised controlled trial

Functional Training for Lower Extremities in Stroke Survivors: A Scoping Review

Engaging in meaningful and repetitive goal-oriented functional tasks can effectively enhance neuroplasticity and facilitate recovery following a stroke. This particular approach has primarily been studied in relation to functional outcomes and has predominantly focused on late subacute and chronic stroke patients. However, there is a lack of information regarding the standardized protocol of lower extremity functional training, its constituent elements, and its impact on motor recovery during the early subacute phase of stroke. The aim of this study was to examine the available evidence related to the intervention protocol of lower extremity functional training in order to identify common training elements and assess their impact on motor and functional outcomes in stroke survivors. A systematic search was conducted on PubMed and Scopus, covering the period from 2000 to 2022. A total of 1786 articles were retrieved and screened based on predefined inclusion criteria. A total of 36 articles were included in this review. The primary findings were classified into categories such as intervention protocols for functional training and their constituent elements, outcome measures utilized, minimal clinically important differences (MCID) reported, and the conclusions drawn by the respective studies. Only a limited quantity of studies reported on the intervention protocol of lower extremity functional training. The majority of these studies focused on the efficacy of functional training for enhancing gait and balance, as evaluated through functional outcome assessments, particularly in the context of chronic stroke patients. In most studies, the evaluation of outcomes was typically based on statistical significance rather than clinical significance. In light of these findings, it is recommended that future studies be conducted during the early subacute phase of stroke to further investigate the impact of functional training on motor outcomes. This will contribute to a broader understanding of the benefits of functional training in facilitating motor recovery in the lower extremities and its clinical significance in stroke survivors.

Standardized circuit class group training versus individualized goal-directed group training to improve upper limb function in stroke survivors during in-patient rehabilitation: a pragmatic trial

PURPOSE

To investigate the usability and effectiveness of standardized circuit class group training (CCT) compared to individualized goal-directed group training (GDT) in subacute stroke survivors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study consists of three parts. Part 1 involved a pragmatic, non-randomized controlled trial with subacute participants and their therapists, who participated in four weeks either CCT or GDT. Superiority of the intervention was defined as significantly larger improvement on the Motor Activity Log for patients and lower workload for therapists. In Part 2, six additional workstations were developed for CCT. Part 3 replicated the study of Part 1 with the expanded CCT.

RESULTS

Part 1 showed no difference in effectiveness between training methods. CCT did not match the rehabilitation goals of the patient sufficiently, however mental workload seemed lower for therapists. An expansion of CCT could improve the match between the patient's goals and the training (Part 2). Results of Part 3 showed again no difference in effectiveness between methods. CCT was however perceived as less engaging compared to GDT, but mental load for therapists remained lower.

CONCLUSIONS

A standardized training could reduce the mental workload for therapists, but patients seemed less engaged. A combination of both might be most beneficial.Trial registration: Dutch Trial Register: NL8844 and NL9471IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONProviding a standardized training program after stroke reduces therapists' mental workload.Individualized goal-directed group training results in the best achievement of rehabilitation goals.A combination of standardized and individual training would use best of both intervention modalities.Patients should be involved in the co-creation developing process of training programs.

The effectiveness of radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy vs transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in the management of upper limb spasticity in chronic-post stroke hemiplegia-A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Traditionally both rESWT and TENS are used in treating post-stroke upper limb spasticity over years and their effectiveness had been assessed disjointedly. However, these methods were not yet compared for superiority.

OBJECTIVES

To compare rESWT vs TENS to assess their effectiveness in different parameters of stroke such as stroke type, gender, and the affected side.

METHODS

The experimental group was treated with rESWT application to the middle of the muscle belly of Teres major, Brachialis, Flexor carpi ulnaris, and Flexor digitorum profundus muscles using 1500 shots per muscle, frequency of 5Hz, energy of 0.030 mJ/mm. The TENS was applied to the same muscles in the control group using 100 Hz for 15 minutes. Assessments were taken at the baseline (T0), immediately after first application (T1), and at the end of four-week protocol (T2).

RESULTS

Patients 106 with a mean age of 63.87±7.052 years were equally divided into rESWT (53) and TENS (53) groups including 62 males, 44 females, 74 ischemic, 32 hemorrhagic, affecting 68 right, and 38 left. Statistical analysis has revealed significant differences at T1 and T2 in both groups. But at T2 compared to T0; the rESWT group has reduced spasticity 4.8 times (95% CI 1.956 to 2.195) while TENS reduced by 2.6 times (95% CI 1.351 to 1.668), improved voluntary control by 3.9 times (95% CI 2.314 to 2.667) and it was 3.2 times (95% CI 1.829 to 2.171) in TENS group. Improvement of the hand functions of the rESWT group was 3.8 times in FMA-UL (95% CI 19.549 to 22.602) and 5.5 times in ARAT (95% CI 22.453 to 24.792) while thrice (95% CI 14.587 to 17.488) and 4.1 times (95% CI 16.019 to 18.283) in TENS group respectively.

CONCLUSION

The rESWT modality is superior compared to the TENS modality for treating chronic post-stroke spastic upper limb.

Training for walking through an opening improves collision avoidance behavior in subacute patients with stroke: a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

Paretic side collisions frequently occur in stroke patients, especially while walking through narrow spaces. We determined whether training for walking through an opening (T-WTO) while entering from the paretic side would improve collision avoidance behavior and prevent falls after 6 months.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-eight adults with moderate-to-mild hemiparetic gait after stroke who were hospitalized in a rehabilitation setting were randomly allocated to the T-WTO (n = 20) or regular rehabilitation (R-Control; n = 18) program. Both groups received five sessions of 40 min per week, for three weeks total. T-WTO included walking through openings of various widths while rotating with the paretic side in front, and R-Control involved normal walking without body rotation. Obstacle avoidance ability, 10-m walking test, timed Up and Go test, Berg Balance Scale, Activities-specific Balance Confidence, the perceptual judgment of passability, and fall incidence were assessed.

RESULTS

Collision rate and time to passage of the opening in obstacle avoidance task significantly improved in the T-WTO group compared with those in the R-Control group. Contrast, T-WTO did not lead to significant improvements in other outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

T-WTO improved efficiency and safety in managing subacute stroke patients. Such training could improve patient outcomes/safety because of the paretic body side during walking.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NO.

R000038375 UMIN000033926.

Effects of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise on serum BDNF and motor learning in the upper-limb in patients after chronic-stroke: A randomized, controlled feasibility study with embedded health economic evaluation

BACKGROUND

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) promotes activity-dependent neuroplasticity and is released following aerobic-exercise.

OBJECTIVE

Feasibility and efficacy of 1.Moderate-Intensity Cycle-Ergometer-Training (MI-ET) and 2.Low-Intensity Circuit-Training (LI-CT) on BDNF-serum-concentration in chronic-stroke and consequently efficacy of motor-learning in varying BDNF-concentrations (neuroplasticity being the substrate for motor-learning) via upper-limb robotic-training (RT) in both groups.

METHODS

Randomised-control feasibility-study. 12-week, 3x/week intervention, 17 chronic-stroke-survivors randomized into: (1) MI-ET&RT or (2) LI-CT&RT. Both groups completed 40 mins MI-ET or LI-CT followed by 40 mins RT. Feasibility outcomes: (1) screening and enrollment-rates, (2) retention-rates, (3) adherence: (i) attendance-rates, (ii) training-duration, (4) adverse events. Primary clinical outcomes: 1. serum-BDNF changes pre-post training (immediate) and pre-training basal-levels over 12-weeks (long-term). 2.upper-limb performance with Action-Research-Arm-Test (ARAT). Additionally, feasibility of an embedded health economic evaluation (HEE) to evaluate health-costs and cost-effectiveness.

OUTCOMES

cost-questionnaire return-rates, cost-of-illness (COI) and Health-Utitility-Index (HUI).

RESULTS

21.5% of eligible and contactable enrolled. 10 randomized to MI-ET and 7 to LI-CT. 85% of training-sessions were completed in MI-ET (306/360) and 76.3% in LI-CT-group (165/216). 12-weeks: Drop-outs MI-ET-10%, LI-CT-43%.

CLINICAL OUTCOMES

No significant changes in immediate or long-term serum-BDNF in either group. Moderate-intensity aerobic-training did not increase serum-BDNF post-stroke. Individual but no group clinically-relevant changes in ARAT-scores. HEE outcomes at 12-weeks: 100% cost-questionnaires returned. Group-costs baseline and after treatment, consistently favouring MI-ET group. COI: (1-year-time-frame): MI-ET 67382 SD (43107) Swiss-Francs and LI-CT 95701(29473) Swiss-Francs.

CONCLUSION

The study is feasible with modifications. Future studies should compare high-intensity versus moderate-intensity aerobic-exercise combined with higher dosage arm-training.

Chronic Phase Survival Rate in Stroke Patients With Severe Functional Limitations According to the Frequency of Rehabilitation Treatment

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the chronic phase survival rate according to the frequency of rehabilitation treatment in the acute and subacute phases in stroke patients with severe functional limitations.

DESIGN

A retrospective longitudinal cohort study.

SETTING

Population-based study using the Korean National Health Insurance Database from 2007 to 2018.

PARTICIPANTS

We enrolled 593 patients who experienced stroke in 2009 with national disability registration (NDR) grade of 3 or less (N=593).

INTERVENTION

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The frequencies of rehabilitation treatment within 24 months after stroke were categorized into none, 1-50, 51-200, 201-400, and >400 treatments based on requests made to the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service. As a dependent variable, we assessed all-cause mortality from 24 to 120 months after stroke.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 283 patients in NDR grade 1 (the most severe), 158 in grade 2, and 152 in grade 3. Groups with more severe functional limitations showed a lower chronic phase survival rate (P<.001). The groups with higher frequencies of rehabilitation treatment in the acute and subacute phases showed a higher chronic phase survival rate (P<.001). In the Cox regression analysis, a higher degree of functional limitation, lower frequency of rehabilitation treatment, older age, male sex, and chronic kidney disease were independent risk factors for chronic phase mortality in stroke patients with severe functional limitations.

CONCLUSIONS

A high frequency of rehabilitation treatment in the acute and subacute phases was associated with the long-term survival of stroke patients with severe functional limitations.

Robotic Table and Serious Games for Integrative Rehabilitation in the Early Poststroke Phase: Two Case Reports

BACKGROUND

BrightArm Compact is a new rehabilitation system for the upper extremities. It provides bimanual training with gradated gravity loading and mediates interactions with cognitively challenging serious games.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to design and test a robotic rehabilitation table-based virtual rehabilitation system for functional impact of the integrative training in the early poststroke phase.

METHODS

A new robotic rehabilitation table, controllers, and adaptive games were developed. The 2 participants underwent 12 experimental sessions in addition to the standard of care. Standardized measures of upper extremity function (primary outcome), depression, and cognition were administered before and after the intervention. Nonstandardized measures included game variables and subjective evaluations.

RESULTS

The 2 case study participants attained high total arm repetitions per session (504 and 957) and achieved high grasp and finger-extension counts. Training intensity contributed to marked improvements in affected shoulder strength (225% and 100% increase), grasp strength (27% and 16% increase), and pinch strength (31% and 15% increase). The shoulder flexion range increased by 17% and 18% and elbow supination range by 75% and 58%. Improvements in motor function were at or above minimal clinically important difference for the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (11 and 10 points), Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory (11 and 14 points), and Upper Extremity Functional Index (19 and 23 points). Cognitive and emotive outcomes were mixed. Subjective rating by participants and training therapists were positive (average 4, SD 0.22, on a 5-point Likert scale).

CONCLUSIONS

The design of the robotic rehabilitation table was tested on 2 participants in the early poststroke phase, and results are encouraging for upper extremity functional gains and technology acceptance.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04252170; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04252170.

Generalizability of Results from Randomized Controlled Trials in Post-Stroke Physiotherapy

Purpose: The randomized controlled trial (RCT) is considered a reliable experimental design, able to detect the effect of an intervention. However, a criticism frequently levelled at RCTs by clinicians is their lack of generalizability. This study aimed to evaluate the generalizability of findings from RCTs of physiotherapy interventions for individuals with stroke. Method: A sample of RCTs of physiotherapy interventions after stroke indexed in the PEDro database was selected, and the reported inclusion and exclusion criteria were analyzed. Results: We reviewed 100 articles, which included 7,366 participants (41.6% women, with a mean weighted age of 65.5 years). The most frequent criteria for exclusion were comorbidity (83%), cognitive impairments (69%), communication skills (55%), recurrent stroke (53%), low functional level (47%) and being elderly (25%). Conclusions: A variety of cohorts of individuals who have had a stroke are excluded from RCTs published in the field of physiotherapy. Because they represent a substantial proportion of the real-world population with stroke, and consequently treated in clinical practice, more vulnerable cohorts of participants should be included in RCTs.

Pragmatic Solutions for Stroke Recovery and Improved Quality of Life in Low- and Middle-Income Countries-A Systematic Review

Background: Given the limited healthcare resources in low and middle income countries (LMICs), effective rehabilitation strategies that can be realistically adopted in such settings are required. Objective: A systematic review of literature was conducted to identify pragmatic solutions and outcomes capable of enhancing stroke recovery and quality of life of stroke survivors for low- and middle- income countries. Methods: PubMed, HINARI, and Directory of Open Access Journals databases were searched for published Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) till November 2018. Only completed trials published in English with non-pharmacological interventions on adult stroke survivors were included in the review while published protocols, pilot studies and feasibility analysis of trials were excluded. Obtained data were synthesized thematically and descriptively analyzed. Results: One thousand nine hundred and ninety six studies were identified while 347 (65.22% high quality) RCTs were found to be eligible for the review. The most commonly assessed variables (and outcome measure utility) were activities of daily living [75.79% of the studies, with Barthel Index (37.02%)], motor function [66.57%; with Fugl Meyer scale (71.88%)], and gait [31.12%; with 6 min walk test (38.67%)]. Majority of the innovatively high technology interventions such as robot therapy (95.24%), virtual reality (94.44%), transcranial direct current stimulation (78.95%), transcranial magnetic stimulation (88.0%) and functional electrical stimulation (85.00%) were conducted in high income countries. Several traditional and low-cost interventions such as constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT), resistant and aerobic exercises (R&AE), task oriented therapy (TOT), body weight supported treadmill training (BWSTT) were reported to significantly contribute to the recovery of motor function, activity, participation, and improvement of quality of life after stroke. Conclusion: Several pragmatic, in terms of affordability, accessibility and utility, stroke rehabilitation solutions, and outcome measures that can be used in resource-limited settings were found to be effective in facilitating and enhancing post-stroke recovery and quality of life.

Obstacle avoidance training for individuals with stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To accumulate evidence that obstacle avoidance training alone is effective in improving the locomotor ability of individuals with stroke.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

SETTING

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, ICTRP and PEDro were searched for related information until December 2018. Two independent reviewers extracted data. Outcome measurement data were subjected to meta-analyses using random-effects models. Data syntheses were conducted using RevMan V.5.3, and the certainty of evidence was determined using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants with various types and phases of stroke were included.

INTERVENTION

The usual gait training including obstacle avoidance training (interventions of any type, intensity, duration and frequency).

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcomes were gait speed, composite gait ability and objective balance ability. Secondary outcomes were subjective balance ability, gait endurance and fall incidence.

RESULTS

Two randomised controlled trials with a total of 49 participants were used as data sources for this study. The obstacle avoidance training (training) group had lower gait speed than the control group (mean difference (MD) 0.03, 95% CI -0.11 to 0.16, p=0.51). Further, the certainty of evidence was very low. The subjective balance ability (Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale) was not significantly different between the training and control groups (MD 6.65, 95% CI -7.59 to 20.89, p=0.36), and it showed very low certainty of evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

Obstacle avoidance training may have little or no effect on individuals with stroke. The failure to find the effectiveness of obstacle avoidance training alone is possibly attributable to the insufficient amount of training in the intervention and the lack of well-designed studies that measured relevant outcomes.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42017060691.

Harnessing smartphone technology and three dimensional printing to create a mobile rehabilitation system, mRehab: assessment of usability and consistency in measurement

BACKGROUND

Residual sensorimotor deficits are common following stroke. While it has been demonstrated that targeted practice can result in improvements in functional mobility years post stroke, there is little to support rehabilitation across the lifespan. The use of technology in home rehabilitation provides an avenue to better support self-management of recovery across the lifespan. We developed a novel mobile technology, capable of quantifying quality of movement with the purpose of providing feedback to augment rehabilitation and improve functional mobility. This mobile rehabilitation system, mRehab, consists of a smartphone embedded in three dimensional printed items representing functional objects found in the home. mRehab allows individuals with motor deficits to practice activities of daily living (ADLs) and receive feedback on their performance. The aim of this study was to assess the usability and consistency of measurement of the mRehab system.

METHODS

To assess usability of the mRehab system, four older adults and four individuals with stroke were recruited to use the system, and complete surveys to discuss their opinions on the user interface of the smartphone app and the design of the 3D printed items. To assess the consistency of measurement by the mRehab system, 12 young adults were recruited and performed mRehab ADLs in three lab sessions within 1 week. Young adults were chosen for their expected high level of consistency in motor performance.

RESULTS

Usability ratings from older adults and individuals with stroke led us to modify the design of the 3D printed items and improve the clarity of the mRehab app. The modified mRehab system was assessed for consistency of measurement and six ADLs resulted in coefficient of variation (CV) below 10%. This is a commonly used CV goal for consistency. Two ADLs ranged between 10 and 15% CV. Only two ADLs demonstrated high CV.

CONCLUSIONS

mRehab is a client-centered technology designed for home rehabilitation that consistently measures performance. Development of the mRehab system provides a support for individuals working on recovering functional upper limb mobility that they can use across their lifespan.

Challenging rehabilitation environment for older patients

Introduction

After hospitalization, 11% of the older patients are referred to rehabilitation facilities. Nowadays, there is a trend to formalize the rehabilitation process for these patients in a Challenging Rehabilitation Environment (CRE). This concept involves the comprehensive organization of care, support and the environment on a rehabilitation ward. However, since literature on the principles of CRE is scarce, this review aimed to explore and describe the principles of CRE.

Methods

A search was made in PubMed for relevant literature concerning CRE. Then, articles were hand searched for relevant keywords (ie, task-oriented training, therapy intensity, patient-led therapy, group training), references were identified, and topics categorized.

Results

After evaluating 51 articles, 7 main topics of CRE were identified: 1) Therapy time; ie, the level of (physical) activity; the intensity of therapy and activity is related to rehabilitation outcomes, 2) group training; used to increase practice time and can be used to achieve multiple goals (eg, activities of daily living, mobility), 3) patient-regulated exercise; increases the level of self-management and practice time, 4) family participation; may lead to increased practice time and have a positive effect on rehabilitation outcomes, 5) task-oriented training; in addition to therapy, nurses can stimulate rehabilitants to perform meaningful tasks that improve functional outcomes, 6) enriched environment; this challenges rehabilitants to be active in social and physical activities, and 7) team dynamics; shared goals during rehabilitation and good communication in a transdisciplinary team improve the quality of rehabilitation.

Discussion

This is the first description of CRE based on literature; however, the included studies discussed rehabilitation mainly after stroke and for few other diagnostic groups.

Conclusion

Seven main topics related to CRE were identified that may help patients to improve their rehabilitation outcomes. Further research on the concept and effectivity of CRE is necessary.

Content Reporting in Post-Stroke Therapeutic Circuit-Class Exercise Programs in randomized control trials

BACKGROUND

Therapeutic exercise in the form of group circuit-class training can improve mobility and gait while being cost-effective among patients who survived a stroke. Accurate clinical replication of interventions, especially when they are effective, is needed to advance research and treatment. However, replication is difficult when reporting is not detailed.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the quality of reporting of interventions within the selected studies using three different scales and to assess the criterion validity between the scales.

METHODS

Two independent assessors used the CERT, the CONTENT scale, and TIDieR checklist to review the quality of reporting of 16 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from a recent Cochrane Review. Assessments were done independently before a consensus was reached with an experienced third reviewer mediating any disagreements. Criterion validity between the three quality reporting tools was measured using weighted Cohen's kappa coefficients.

RESULTS

The mean (±SD) for the CERT was 9.31 (±1.66) out of 19 points; the TIDieR checklist was 8.81 (±1.33) out of 12 points; and the CONTENT was 4.82 (±1.22) out of 9 points for the 16 included RCTs. The CERT and CONTENT scale had a fair agreement (k = 0.455, p = 0.064), while both CERT and CONTENT had only slight agreement with TIDieR (k = 0.143, p = 0.267; k = 0.200, p = 0.182, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study indicate a lack of reporting from the 16 RCTs on post-stroke therapeutic circuit-class exercise programs. This presents a major barrier to knowledge translation and clinical implementation of effective exercise programs for stroke rehabilitation.

A professional development program increased the intensity of practice undertaken in an inpatient, upper limb rehabilitation class: A pre-post study

BACKGROUND/AIM

Increasing the intensity of practice is associated with improved upper limb outcomes, yet observed intensity levels during rehabilitation are low. The purpose of this study was to investigate: whether a professional development program would increase the intensity of practice undertaken in an inpatient, upper limb rehabilitation class; and whether any increase would be maintained six months after the cessation of the program.

METHOD

A pre-post study was conducted within an existing inpatient, upper limb rehabilitation class in a metropolitan hospital. Staff received a professional development program which included: a two day theoretical, practical and clinical training workshop covering evidence-based practice for upper limb rehabilitation after stroke; and three 1-hour meetings to revise evidence-based practice and discuss implementation of strategies. Intensity of practice, as measured by the proportion of practice time per class (%) and the number of repetitions per practice time (repetitions/min) observed during the 60-minute classes during one week, was recorded at baseline, end of program (12 months) and six months later (18 months).

RESULTS

Twenty-two (100%) staff attended at least one professional development program session; outcomes were measured across n = 15 classes (n = 30 patients). Between baseline and 12 months, the mean proportion of practice time per class increased by 52% (95% confidence interval (CI) 33-70; P < 0.001) and the mean number of repetitions per practice time increased by 5.1 repetitions/min (95% CI 1.7-8.4; P < 0.01). Between baseline and 18 months, the mean proportion of practice time per class increased by 53% (95% CI 36-69; P < 0.001) and the mean number of repetitions per practice time increased by 3.9 repetitions/min (95% CI 1.9-5.9; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Providing professional development was associated with increased intensity of practice in an inpatient, upper limb rehabilitation class. The increase was maintained six months later.

The effectiveness of group exercise for improving activity and participation in adult stroke survivors: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Following post stroke rehabilitation, group exercise interventions can be used to continue improving cardiovascular fitness, activity levels, balance, gait, movement efficiency, and strengthening. However, little is known of the effectiveness of group exercise for improving activity and participation in stroke survivors.

OBJECTIVES

This review aims to assess the effectiveness of group exercise for improving activity and participation in adult stroke survivors.

DATA SOURCES

Databases searched were MEDLINE, Web of Science (Core collection), CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of group exercise using validated outcome measures of activity and participation for post stroke rehabilitation. Two independent reviewers assessed all abstracts, extracted data, conducted a narrative synthesis and assessed the quality of all included articles. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool assessed methodological quality and included outcome measure quality was assessed.

RESULTS

14 RCTs were included (n=624 chronic stroke survivors collectively). Studies ranged between 12 and 243 stroke participants with an average of left:right hemisphere lesions of 32:39 and average age was 66.7 years. Although intervention and control groups improved, no significant difference between group differences were evident.

CONCLUSION

and implications of key findings: The review found improvements are short-term and less evident at long-term follow up with little improvements in participation after 6months. However, this review was limited to the standard of intervention reporting. Further research should consider consistency in measuring underpinning mechanisms of group exercise interventions, which may explain the lack of activity changes in long-term follow-up.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO

CRD42017078917.

The effects of coordinative locomotor training on coordination and gait in chronic stroke patients: a randomized controlled pilot trial

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of coordinative locomotor training (CLT) on coordination and gait in chronic stroke patients. Thirteen stroke patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups: The experimental group (EG, n=7) and control group (CG, n=6). After balanced random assignment, interventions were provided to all patients in twelve 30-min sessions during a 4-week period (3 sessions a week). The EG group underwent CLT after performing the sprinter and skater patterns in four postures. The CG group was provided with conventional neurodevelopment treatment. The primary outcomes were measured using the gait assessment and intervention tool (GAIT) as well as G-WALK. The secondary outcomes were measured using a 10-m walk test (10 MWT) and Timed Up and Go Test. There was no statistically significant difference in the mean values between the two groups. Within both groups there were significant differences in GAIT and 10MWT. There were significant differences in gait speed and stride length in the experimental group, but not in the control group. CLT showed a more positive improvement in gait and coordination after stroke than conventional rehabilitation exercise.

The Effects of Task-Oriented Circuit Training Using Rehabilitation Tools on the Upper-Extremity Functions and Daily Activities of Patients with Acute Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of task-oriented circuit training (TOCT) using the rehabilitation tools for upper extremity function upon the daily life of patients with acute stroke.

Methods

Eighteen patients with acute stroke were randomly allocated into either the experimental group or the control group. The experimental group performed the TOCT program using rehabilitation tools, whilst the control group had neuro-developmental treatment. Both groups received 30 minutes of treatment per session, 5~6 times per week, for 4 weeks. The assessments conducted were the Fugl-Meyer assessment, motor activity log and stroke impact scale to compare the upper extremity function and activities of daily living.

Results

The results showed a significant improvement in the TOCT group compared with the neuro-developmental treatment group in the amount of motor activity use and high stroke impact score, indicating recovery (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The TOCT program using rehabilitation tools could have a positive impact on acute stroke patients use of their upper extremity.

Effectiveness and Superiority of Rehabilitative Treatments in Enhancing Motor Recovery Within 6 Months Poststroke: A Systemic Review

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of various rehabilitative interventions aimed at enhancing poststroke motor recovery by assessing their effectiveness when compared with no treatment or placebo and their superiority when compared with conventional training program (CTP).

DATA SOURCE

A literature search was based on 19 Cochrane reviews and 26 other reviews. We also updated the searches in PubMed up to September 30, 2017.

STUDY SELECTION

Randomized controlled trials associated with 18 experimented training programs (ETP) were included if they evaluated the effects of the programs on either upper extremity (UE) or lower extremity (LE) motor recovery among adults within 6 months poststroke; included ≥10 participants in each arm; and had an intervention duration of ≥10 consecutive weekdays.

DATA EXTRACTION

Four reviewers evaluated the eligibility and quality of literature. Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Among the 178 included studies, 129 including 7450 participants were analyzed in this meta-analysis. Six ETPs were significantly effective in enhancing UE motor recovery, with the standard mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals outlined as follow: constraint-induced movement therapy (0.82, 0.45-1.19), electrostimulation (ES)-motor (0.42, 0.22-0.63), mirror therapy (0.71, 0.22-1.20), mixed approach (0.21, 0.01-0.41), robot-assisted training (0.51, 0.22-0.80), and task-oriented training (0.57, 0.16-0.99). Six ETPs were significantly effective in enhancing LE motor recovery: body-weight-supported treadmill training (0.27, 0.01-0.52), caregiver-mediated training (0.64, 0.20-1.08), ES-motor (0.55, 0.27-0.83), mixed approach (0.35, 0.15-0.54), mirror therapy (0.56, 0.13-1.00), and virtual reality (0.60, 0.15-1.05). However, compared with CTPs, almost none of the ETPs exhibited significant SMDs for superiority.

CONCLUSIONS

Certain experimented interventions were effective in enhancing poststroke motor recovery, but little evidence supported the superiority of experimented interventions over conventional rehabilitation.

Efficacy and Safety of Caregiver-Mediated Exercise in Post-stroke Rehabilitation

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of our 4-week caregiver-mediated exercise (CME) in improving trunk control capacity, gait, and balance and in decreasing concerns about post-stroke falls when there is an increase in its efficacy.

Methods

Acute or subacute stroke survivors were assigned to either the trial group (n=35) or the control group (n=37). Changes in Modified Barthel Index (MBI), Functional Ambulation Categories (FAC), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) scores at 4 weeks from baseline served as primary outcome measures. Correlations of primary outcome measures with changes in Fall Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I) scores at 4 weeks from baseline in the trial group served as secondary outcome measures. Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) served as safety outcome measures.

Results

There were significant differences in changes in MBI, FAC, BBS, TIS-T, TIS-D, TIS-C, and FES-I scores at 4 weeks from baseline between the two groups (all p<0.0001). There were no significant (p=0.0755) differences in changes in TIS-S scores at 4 weeks from baseline between the two groups. MBI, FAC, BBS, and TIS scores showed significantly inverse correlations with FES-I scores in patients receiving CME. There were no TEAEs in our series.

Conclusion

CME was effective and safe in improving the degree of independence, ambulation status, dynamic and static balance, trunk function, and concerns about post-stroke falls in stroke survivors.

A narrative review of gait training after stroke and a proposal for developing a novel gait training device that provides minimal assistance

BACKGROUND

Gait impairment is common in stroke survivors. Recovery of walking ability is one of the most pressing objectives in stroke rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVES

Of this report are to briefly review recent progress in gait training after stroke including the use of partial body weight-supported treadmill training (PBWSTT) and robot-assisted step training (RAST), and propose a minimal assistance strategy that may overcome some of limitations of current RAST.

METHODS

The literature review emphasizes a dilemma that recent randomized clinical trials did not support the use of RAST. The unsatisfactory results of current RAST clinical trials may be partially due to a lack of careful analysis of movement deficiencies and their relevance to gait training task specificity after stroke. Normal movement pattern is implied to be part of task specificity in the current RAST. Limitations of such task specificity are analyzed.

RESULTS

Based on the review, we redefine an alternative set of gait training task specificity that represents a minimal assistance strategy in terms of assisted body movements and amount of assistance. Specifically, assistances are applied only to hip flexion and ankle dorsiflexion of the affected lower limb during swing phase. Furthermore, we propose a conceptual design of a novel device that may overcome limitations of current RAST in gait training after stroke. The novel device uses a pulling cable, either manually operated by a therapist or automated by a servomotor, to provide assistive forces to help hip flexion and ankle dorsiflexion of the affected lower limb during gait training.

CONCLUSION

The proposed minimal assistance strategy may help to design better devices for gait or other motor training.

Effectiveness of Circuit-Based Exercises on Gait Speed, Balance, and Functional Mobility in People Affected by Stroke: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Several interventions have been proposed to rehabilitate patients with neurologic dysfunctions due to stroke. However, the effectiveness of circuit-based exercises according to its actual definition, ie, an overall program to improve strength, stamina, balance or functioning, was not provided.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effectiveness of circuit-based exercise in the treatment of people affected by stroke.

METHODS

A search through PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database databases was performed to identify controlled clinical trials without language or date restriction. The overall mean difference with 95% confidence interval was calculated for all outcomes. Two independent reviewers assessed the risk of bias.

RESULTS

Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria, and 8 presented suitable data to perform a meta-analysis. Quantitative analysis showed that circuit-based exercise was more effective than conventional intervention on gait speed (mean difference of 0.11 m/s) and circuit-based exercise was not significantly more effective than conventional intervention on balance and functional mobility.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrated that circuit-based exercise presents better effects on gait when compared with conventional intervention and that its effects on balance and functional mobility were not better than conventional interventions.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I.

Cardiorespiratory fitness and walking endurance improvements after 12 months of an individualised home and community-based exercise programme for people after stroke

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the immediate and longer-term effects of an individually tailored, home- and community-based exercise programme with ongoing remote support in people with stroke on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), ambulation and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

METHODS

Twenty people 5.3 ± 3.5 months post stroke completed the 12-week HowFITSS? exercise programme aimed at increasing CRF and daily physical activity. Support was provided by phone and email, which decreased in frequency over time. Participants were assessed at baseline, then at 3, 6 and 12 months after initiation of the intervention. CRF (VO_2peak) was evaluated using a portable metabolic system during the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), the Shuttle Walk Test (SWT) and the cycle graded exercise test (cGXT). Walking speed, balance, body composition, fatigue, depression and HRQoL were also measured.

RESULTS

CRF improved significantly from pre-intervention to 12-month follow-up on the 6MWT (Effect Size, ES = 0.87; p = 0.002) and cGXT (ES = 0.60; p < 0.001), with more modest improvements on the SWT (ES = 0.52; p = 0.251). From baseline to 12 months, significant within-participant improvements were found for self-selected walking speed, balance and HRQoL. Performances on the remaining tests were maintained over the post-intervention period.

CONCLUSION

There may be health benefits of providing people with stroke an exercise intervention with long-term support that encourages increased regular physical activity.

Treadmill training and body weight support for walking after stroke

BACKGROUND

Treadmill training, with or without body weight support using a harness, is used in rehabilitation and might help to improve walking after stroke. This is an update of the Cochrane review first published in 2003 and updated in 2005 and 2014.

OBJECTIVES

To determine if treadmill training and body weight support, individually or in combination, improve walking ability, quality of life, activities of daily living, dependency or death, and institutionalisation or death, compared with other physiotherapy gait-training interventions after stroke. The secondary objective was to determine the safety and acceptability of this method of gait training.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (last searched 14 February 2017), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and the Database of Reviews of Effects (DARE) (the Cochrane Library 2017, Issue 2), MEDLINE (1966 to 14 February 2017), Embase (1980 to 14 February 2017), CINAHL (1982 to 14 February 2017), AMED (1985 to 14 February 2017) and SPORTDiscus (1949 to 14 February 2017). We also handsearched relevant conference proceedings and ongoing trials and research registers, screened reference lists, and contacted trialists to identify further trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled and cross-over trials of treadmill training and body weight support, individually or in combination, for the treatment of walking after stroke.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected trials, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias and methodological quality. The primary outcomes investigated were walking speed, endurance, and dependency.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 56 trials with 3105 participants in this updated review. The average age of the participants was 60 years, and the studies were carried out in both inpatient and outpatient settings. All participants had at least some walking difficulties and many could not walk without assistance. Overall, the use of treadmill training did not increase the chances of walking independently compared with other physiotherapy interventions (risk difference (RD) -0.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.02 to 0.02; 18 trials, 1210 participants; P = 0.94; I² = 0%; low-quality evidence). Overall, the use of treadmill training in walking rehabilitation for people after stroke increased the walking velocity and walking endurance significantly. The pooled mean difference (MD) (random-effects model) for walking velocity was 0.06 m/s (95% CI 0.03 to 0.09; 47 trials, 2323 participants; P < 0.0001; I² = 44%; moderate-quality evidence) and the pooled MD for walking endurance was 14.19 metres (95% CI 2.92 to 25.46; 28 trials, 1680 participants; P = 0.01; I² = 27%; moderate-quality evidence). Overall, the use of treadmill training with body weight support in walking rehabilitation for people after stroke did not increase the walking velocity and walking endurance at the end of scheduled follow-up. The pooled MD (random-effects model) for walking velocity was 0.03 m/s (95% CI -0.05 to 0.10; 12 trials, 954 participants; P = 0.50; I² = 55%; low-quality evidence) and the pooled MD for walking endurance was 21.64 metres (95% CI -4.70 to 47.98; 10 trials, 882 participants; P = 0.11; I² = 47%; low-quality evidence). In 38 studies with a total of 1571 participants who were independent in walking at study onset, the use of treadmill training increased the walking velocity significantly. The pooled MD (random-effects model) for walking velocity was 0.08 m/s (95% CI 0.05 to 0.12; P < 0.00001; I2 = 49%). There were insufficient data to comment on any effects on quality of life or activities of daily living. Adverse events and dropouts did not occur more frequently in people receiving treadmill training and these were not judged to be clinically serious events.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Overall, people after stroke who receive treadmill training, with or without body weight support, are not more likely to improve their ability to walk independently compared with people after stroke not receiving treadmill training, but walking speed and walking endurance may improve slightly in the short term. Specifically, people with stroke who are able to walk (but not people who are dependent in walking at start of treatment) appear to benefit most from this type of intervention with regard to walking speed and walking endurance. This review did not find, however, that improvements in walking speed and endurance may have persisting beneficial effects. Further research should specifically investigate the effects of different frequencies, durations, or intensities (in terms of speed increments and inclination) of treadmill training, as well as the use of handrails, in ambulatory participants, but not in dependent walkers.

Effects of task-oriented circuit training on balance and gait ability in subacute stroke patients: a randomized controlled trial

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the task-oriented circuit training on balance and gait ability in subacute patients with stroke. [Subjects and Methods] Participants were randomly allocated to two groups: group 1 (subjects who performed task-oriented circuit training) and group 2 (subjects who underwent conventional physical therapy). Berg balance scale, timed up and go test, functional ambulation category, 6-minute walk test were assessed before and after four weeks of training. [Results] There were significant differences between groups for the 6-minute walk test. [Conclusion] The result of this study showed that task-oriented circuit training could improve the gait ability in patients with subacute stroke.

Circuit class therapy for improving mobility after stroke

BACKGROUND

Circuit class therapy (CCT) offers a supervised group forum for people after stroke to practise tasks, enabling increased practice time without increasing staffing. This is an update of the original review published in 2010.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the effectiveness and safety of CCT on mobility in adults with stroke.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (last searched January 2017), CENTRAL (the Cochrane Library, Issue 12, 2016), MEDLINE (1950 to January 2017), Embase (1980 to January 2017), CINAHL (1982 to January 2017), and 14 other electronic databases (to January 2017). We also searched proceedings from relevant conferences, reference lists, and unpublished theses; contacted authors of published trials and other experts in the field; and searched relevant clinical trials and research registers.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) including people over 18 years old, diagnosed with stroke of any severity, at any stage, or in any setting, receiving CCT.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Review authors independently selected trials for inclusion, assessed risk of bias in all included studies, and extracted data.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 17 RCTs involving 1297 participants. Participants were stroke survivors living in the community or receiving inpatient rehabilitation. Most could walk 10 metres without assistance. Ten studies (835 participants) measured walking capacity (measuring how far the participant could walk in six minutes) demonstrating that CCT was superior to the comparison intervention (Six-Minute Walk Test: mean difference (MD), fixed-effect, 60.86 m, 95% confidence interval (CI) 44.55 to 77.17, GRADE: moderate). Eight studies (744 participants) measured gait speed, again finding in favour of CCT compared with other interventions (MD 0.15 m/s, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.19, GRADE: moderate). Both of these effects are considered clinically meaningful. We were able to pool other measures to demonstrate the superior effects of CCT for aspects of walking and balance (Timed Up and Go: five studies, 488 participants, MD -3.62 seconds, 95% CI -6.09 to -1.16; Activities of Balance Confidence scale: two studies, 103 participants, MD 7.76, 95% CI 0.66 to 14.87). Two other pooled balance measures failed to demonstrate superior effects (Berg Blance Scale and Step Test). Independent mobility, as measured by the Stroke Impact Scale, Functional Ambulation Classification and the Rivermead Mobility Index, also improved more in CCT interventions compared with others. Length of stay showed a non-significant effect in favour of CCT (two trials, 217 participants, MD -16.35, 95% CI -37.69 to 4.99). Eight trials (815 participants) measured adverse events (falls during therapy): there was a non-significant effect of greater risk of falls in the CCT groups (RD 0.03, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.08, GRADE: very low). Time after stroke did not make a difference to the positive outcomes, nor did the quality or size of the trials. Heterogeneity was generally low; risk of bias was variable across the studies with poor reporting of study conduct in several of the trials.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is moderate evidence that CCT is effective in improving mobility for people after stroke - they may be able to walk further, faster, with more independence and confidence in their balance. The effects may be greater later after the stroke, and are of clinical significance. Further high-quality research is required, investigating quality of life, participation and cost-benefits, that compares CCT with standard care and that also investigates the influence of factors such as stroke severity and age. The potential risk of increased falls during CCT needs to be monitored.

Repetitive task training for improving functional ability after stroke

BACKGROUND

Repetitive task training (RTT) involves the active practice of task-specific motor activities and is a component of current therapy approaches in stroke rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVES

Primary objective: To determine if RTT improves upper limb function/reach and lower limb function/balance in adults after stroke. Secondary objectives: 1) To determine the effect of RTT on secondary outcome measures including activities of daily living, global motor function, quality of life/health status and adverse events. 2) To determine the factors that could influence primary and secondary outcome measures, including the effect of 'dose' of task practice; type of task (whole therapy, mixed or single task); timing of the intervention and type of intervention.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (4 March 2016); the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (the Cochrane Library 2016, Issue 5: 1 October 2006 to 24 June 2016); MEDLINE (1 October 2006 to 8 March 2016); Embase (1 October 2006 to 8 March 2016); CINAHL (2006 to 23 June 2016); AMED (2006 to 21 June 2016) and SPORTSDiscus (2006 to 21 June 2016).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised/quasi-randomised trials in adults after stroke, where the intervention was an active motor sequence performed repetitively within a single training session, aimed towards a clear functional goal.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened abstracts, extracted data and appraised trials. We determined the quality of evidence within each study and outcome group using the Cochrane 'Risk of bias' tool and GRADE (Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) criteria. We did not assess follow-up outcome data using GRADE. We contacted trial authors for additional information.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 33 trials with 36 intervention-control pairs and 1853 participants. The risk of bias present in many studies was unclear due to poor reporting; the evidence has therefore been rated 'moderate' or 'low' when using the GRADE system. There is low-quality evidence that RTT improves arm function (standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.01 to 0.49; 11 studies, number of participants analysed = 749), hand function (SMD 0.25, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.51; eight studies, number of participants analysed = 619), and lower limb functional measures (SMD 0.29, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.48; five trials, number of participants analysed = 419). There is moderate-quality evidence that RTT improves walking distance (mean difference (MD) 34.80, 95% CI 18.19 to 51.41; nine studies, number of participants analysed = 610) and functional ambulation (SMD 0.35, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.66; eight studies, number of participants analysed = 525). We found significant differences between groups for both upper-limb (SMD 0.92, 95% CI 0.58 to 1.26; three studies, number of participants analysed = 153) and lower-limb (SMD 0.34, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.52; eight studies, number of participants analysed = 471) outcomes up to six months post treatment but not after six months. Effects were not modified by intervention type, dosage of task practice or time since stroke for upper or lower limb. There was insufficient evidence to be certain about the risk of adverse events.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is low- to moderate-quality evidence that RTT improves upper and lower limb function; improvements were sustained up to six months post treatment. Further research should focus on the type and amount of training, including ways of measuring the number of repetitions actually performed by participants. The definition of RTT will need revisiting prior to further updates of this review in order to ensure it remains clinically meaningful and distinguishable from other interventions.

Repetitive arm functional tasks after stroke (RAFTAS): a pilot randomised controlled trial

Background

Repetitive functional task practise (RFTP) is a promising treatment to improve upper limb recovery following stroke. We report the findings of a study to determine the feasibility of a multi-centre randomised controlled trial to evaluate this intervention.

Methods

A pilot randomised controlled trial recruited patients with new reduced upper limb function within 14 days of acute stroke from three stroke units. Participants were randomised to receive a four week upper limb RFTP therapy programme consisting of goal setting, independent activity practise, and twice weekly therapy reviews in addition to usual post stroke rehabilitation, or usual post stroke rehabilitation. The recruitment rate; adherence to the RFTP therapy programme; usual post stroke rehabilitation received; attrition rate; data quality; success of outcome assessor blinding; adverse events; and the views of study participants and therapists about the intervention were recorded.

Results

Fifty five eligible patients were identified, 4-6 % of patients screened at each site. Twenty four patients participated in the pilot study. Two study sites met the recruitment target of 1–2 participants per month. The median number of face to face therapy sessions received was 6 [IQR 3–8]. The median number of daily repetitions of activities recorded was 80 [IQR 39–80]. Data about usual post stroke rehabilitation were available for 18/24 (75 %). Outcome data were available for 22/24 (92 %) at one month and 20/24 (83 %) at three months. Outcome assessors were unblinded to participant group allocation for 11/22 (50 %) at one month and 6/20 (30 %) at three months. Four adverse events were considered serious as they resulted in hospitalisation. None were related to study treatment. Feedback from patients and therapists about the RFTP programme was mainly positive.

Conclusions

A multi-centre randomised controlled trial to evaluate an upper limb RFTP therapy programme provided early after stroke is feasible and acceptable to patients and therapists, but there are issues which need to be addressed when designing a Phase III study. A Phase III study will need to monitor and report not only recruitment and attrition but also adherence to the intervention, usual post stroke rehabilitation received, and outcome assessor blinding.

Trial registration

International Standard Randomised Controlled Trials Number (ISRCTN) 58527251

Effect of Virtual Reality-based Bilateral Upper Extremity Training on Upper Extremity Function after Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of virtual reality-based bilateral upper extremity training (VRBT) on paretic upper limb function and muscle strength in patients with stroke. Eighteen stroke survivors were assigned to either the VRBT group (n = 10) or the bilateral upper limb training group (BT, n = 8). Patients in the VRBT group performed bilateral upper extremity exercises in a virtual reality environment, whereas those in the BT group performed conventional bilateral upper extremity exercises. All training was conducted for 30 minutes day^-1 , 3 days a week, for a period of 6 weeks. Patients were assessed for upper extremity function and hand strength. Compared with the BT group, the VRBT group exhibited significant improvements in upper extremity function and muscle strength (p < 0.05) after the 6-week training programme. The Box and Block test results revealed that upper extremity function and elbow flexion in hand strength were significantly improved in terms of group, time and interaction effect of group by time. Furthermore, the VRBT group demonstrated significant improvements in upper extremity function, as measured by the Jebsen Hand Function Test and Grooved Pegboard test, and in the hand strength test, as measured by elbow extension, grip, palmar pinch, lateral pinch and tip pinch, in both time and the interaction effect of group by time. These results suggest that VRBT is a feasible and beneficial means of improving upper extremity function and muscle strength in individuals following stroke. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A Home- and Community-Based Physical Activity Program Can Improve the Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Walking Capacity of Stroke Survivors

BACKGROUND

The cardiorespiratory fitness of stroke survivors is low. Center-based exercise programs that include an aerobic component have been shown to improve poststroke cardiorespiratory fitness. This pilot study aims to determine the feasibility, safety, and preliminary efficacy of an individually tailored home- and community-based exercise program to improve cardiorespiratory fitness and walking capacity in stroke survivors.

METHODS

Independently ambulant, community-dwelling stroke survivors were recruited. The control (n = 10) and intervention (n = 10) groups both received usual care. In addition the intervention group undertook a 12-week, individually tailored, home- and community-based exercise program, including once-weekly telephone or e-mail support. Assessments were conducted at baseline and at 12 weeks. Feasibility was determined by retention and program participation, and safety by adverse events. Efficacy measures included change in cardiorespiratory fitness (peak oxygen consumption [VO2peak]) and distance walked during the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Analysis of covariance was used for data analysis.

RESULTS

All participants completed the study with no adverse events. All intervention participants reported undertaking their prescribed program. VO2peak improved more in the intervention group (1.17 ± .29 L/min to 1.35 ± .33 L/min) than the control group (1.24 ± .23 L/min to 1.24 ± .33 L/min, between-group difference = .18 L/min, 95% confidence interval [CI]: .01-.36). Distance walked improved more in the intervention group (427 ± 123 m to 494 ± 67m) compared to the control group (456 ± 101m to 470 ± 106m, between-group difference = 45 m, 95% CI: .3-90).

CONCLUSIONS

Our individually tailored approach with once-weekly telephone or e-mail support was feasible and effective in selected stroke survivors. The 16% greater improvement in VO2peak during the 6MWT achieved in the intervention versus control group is comparable to improvements attained in supervised, center-based programs.

Stroke Rehabilitation 2007: What Should it Be?

Background

There are an estimated 62 million stroke survivors worldwide. The majority will have long-term disability. Despite this reality, there have been few large, high-quality randomized controlled trials of stroke rehabilitation interventions.

Summary of review

There is excellent evidence for the effectiveness of a number of stroke rehabilitation interventions, notably care of stroke patients in inpatient stroke units and stroke rehabilitation units providing organized, goal-focused care via a multidisciplinary team. Stroke units (in comparison with care on general medical wards) effectively reduce death and disability with the number needed to treat to prevent one person from failing to regain independence being 20. Unfortunately, only a minority of stroke patients have access to stroke unit care. The key principles of effective stroke rehabilitation have been identified. These include ( 1 ) a functional approach targeted at specific activities e.g. walking, activities of daily living, ( 2 ) frequent and intense practice, and ( 3 ) commencement in the first days or weeks after stroke.

Conclusion

The most effective approaches to restoration of brain function after stroke remain unknown and there is an urgent need for more high-quality research. In the meantime, simple, broadly applicable stroke rehabilitation interventions with proven efficacy, particularly stroke unit care, must be applied more widely.

Effect of affordable technology on physical activity levels and mobility outcomes in rehabilitation: a protocol for the Activity and MObility UsiNg Technology (AMOUNT) rehabilitation trial

INTRODUCTION

People with mobility limitations can benefit from rehabilitation programmes that provide a high dose of exercise. However, since providing a high dose of exercise is logistically challenging and resource-intensive, people in rehabilitation spend most of the day inactive. This trial aims to evaluate the effect of the addition of affordable technology to usual care on physical activity and mobility in people with mobility limitations admitted to inpatient aged and neurological rehabilitation units compared to usual care alone.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A pragmatic, assessor blinded, parallel-group randomised trial recruiting 300 consenting rehabilitation patients with reduced mobility will be conducted. Participants will be individually randomised to intervention or control groups. The intervention group will receive technology-based exercise to target mobility and physical activity problems for 6 months. The technology will include the use of video and computer games/exercises and tablet applications as well as activity monitors. The control group will not receive any additional intervention and both groups will receive usual inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation care over the 6-month study period. The coprimary outcomes will be objectively assessed physical activity (proportion of the day spent upright) and mobility (Short Physical Performance Battery) at 6 months after randomisation. Secondary outcomes will include: self-reported and objectively assessed physical activity, mobility, cognition, activity performance and participation, utility-based quality of life, balance confidence, technology self-efficacy, falls and service utilisation. Linear models will assess the effect of group allocation for each continuously scored outcome measure with baseline scores entered as a covariate. Fall rates between groups will be compared using negative binomial regression. Primary analyses will be preplanned, conducted while masked to group allocation and use an intention-to-treat approach.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The protocol has been approved by the relevant Human Research Ethics Committees and the results will be disseminated widely through peer-reviewed publication and conference presentations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12614000936628. Pre-results.

tDCS and Robotics on Upper Limb Stroke Rehabilitation: Effect Modification by Stroke Duration and Type of Stroke

Objective. The aim of this exploratory pilot study is to test the effects of bilateral tDCS combined with upper extremity robot-assisted therapy (RAT) on stroke survivors. Methods. We enrolled 23 subjects who were allocated to 2 groups: RAT + real tDCS and RAT + sham-tDCS. Each patient underwent 10 sessions (5 sessions/week) over two weeks. Outcome measures were collected before and after treatment: (i) Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), (ii) Box and Block Test (BBT), and (iii) Motor Activity Log (MAL). Results. Both groups reported a significant improvement in FMA-UE score after treatment (p < 0.01). No significant between-groups differences were found in motor function. However, when the analysis was adjusted for stroke type and duration, a significant interaction effect (p < 0.05) was detected, showing that stroke duration (acute versus chronic) and type (cortical versus subcortical) modify the effect of tDCS and robotics on motor function. Patients with chronic and subcortical stroke benefited more from the treatments than patients with acute and cortical stroke, who presented very small changes. Conclusion. The additional use of bilateral tDCS to RAT seems to have a significant beneficial effect depending on the duration and type of stroke. These results should be verified by additional confirmatory studies.

Physical fitness training for stroke patients

BACKGROUND

Levels of physical fitness are low after stroke. It is unknown whether improving physical fitness after stroke reduces disability.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether fitness training after stroke reduces death, dependence, and disability and to assess the effects of training with regard to adverse events, risk factors, physical fitness, mobility, physical function, quality of life, mood, and cognitive function. Interventions to improve cognitive function have attracted increased attention after being identified as the highest rated research priority for life after stroke. Therefore we have added this class of outcomes to this updated review.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (last searched February 2015), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL 2015, Issue 1: searched February 2015), MEDLINE (1966 to February 2015), EMBASE (1980 to February 2015), CINAHL (1982 to February 2015), SPORTDiscus (1949 to February 2015), and five additional databases (February 2015). We also searched ongoing trials registers, handsearched relevant journals and conference proceedings, screened reference lists, and contacted experts in the field.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised trials comparing either cardiorespiratory training or resistance training, or both (mixed training), with usual care, no intervention, or a non-exercise intervention in stroke survivors.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected trials, assessed quality and risk of bias, and extracted data. We analysed data using random-effects meta-analyses. Diverse outcome measures limited the intended analyses.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 58 trials, involving 2797 participants, which comprised cardiorespiratory interventions (28 trials, 1408 participants), resistance interventions (13 trials, 432 participants), and mixed training interventions (17 trials, 957 participants). Thirteen deaths occurred before the end of the intervention and a further nine before the end of follow-up. No dependence data were reported. Diverse outcome measures restricted pooling of data. Global indices of disability show moderate improvement after cardiorespiratory training (standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.52, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.19 to 0.84; P value = 0.002) and by a small amount after mixed training (SMD 0.26, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.49; P value = 0.02); benefits at follow-up (i.e. after training had stopped) were unclear. There were too few data to assess the effects of resistance training.Cardiorespiratory training involving walking improved maximum walking speed (mean difference (MD) 6.71 metres per minute, 95% CI 2.73 to 10.69), preferred gait speed (MD 4.28 metres per minute, 95% CI 1.71 to 6.84), and walking capacity (MD 30.29 metres in six minutes, 95% CI 16.19 to 44.39) at the end of the intervention. Mixed training, involving walking, increased preferred walking speed (MD 4.54 metres per minute, 95% CI 0.95 to 8.14), and walking capacity (MD 41.60 metres per six minutes, 95% CI 25.25 to 57.95). Balance scores improved slightly after mixed training (SMD 0.27, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.47). Some mobility benefits also persisted at the end of follow-up. The variability, quality of the included trials, and lack of data prevents conclusions about other outcomes and limits generalisability of the observed results.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Cardiorespiratory training and, to a lesser extent, mixed training reduce disability during or after usual stroke care; this could be mediated by improved mobility and balance. There is sufficient evidence to incorporate cardiorespiratory and mixed training, involving walking, within post-stroke rehabilitation programmes to improve the speed and tolerance of walking; some improvement in balance could also occur. There is insufficient evidence to support the use of resistance training. The effects of training on death and dependence after stroke are still unclear but these outcomes are rarely observed in physical fitness training trials. Cognitive function is under-investigated despite being a key outcome of interest for patients. Further well-designed randomised trials are needed to determine the optimal exercise prescription and identify long-term benefits.

Validity and reliability of the 20-m run, horizontal leap, and four-bound tests measuring high-level mobility in neurologically impaired patients

Background

High-level mobility (HLM) training including running forms an integral part of physical rehabilitation for neurologically impaired patients.

Objective

This study examines the validity and reliability of three quickly administrable measures of HLM, namely, the 20-m run, horizontal leap, and four-bound tests in patients with neurological disorders.

Methods

This is a retrospective data audit of 62 patients (23 women, 37.1%; 39 men, 62.9%) participating in the HLM (running retraining) task. All participants were recovering from neurological conditions such as stroke, brain injury, brain/spinal tumour, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and cerebral palsy complications.

Results

High levels of test-retest reliability of the investigated tests (interclass correlation coefficient > 0.95) were obtained. The 95% minimum detectable changes were as follows: 20-m run, 1.9 seconds; horizontal leap, 0.20 m; four-bound test, 0.57 m. The area under the receiver-operated characteristic curve was 0.96 for the 20-m run, 0.90 for the horizontal leap, and 0.91 for the four-bound test, which suggests high validity of the tests to discriminate between participants who were classified as "running" and those as "not running". Participants performing at < 7.2 seconds for the 20-m run test or ≥ 0.75 m for the horizontal leap test or 4.0 m for the four-bound test were most likely classified as running.

Conclusion

The 20-m run, horizontal leap, and four-bound tests are valid and reliable objective measures of HLM when administered in people with neurological conditions.

Long-term Effectiveness of Intensive Therapy in Chronic Stroke

Background While recent clinical trials involving robot-assisted therapy have failed to show clinically significant improvement versus conventional therapy, it is possible that a broader strategy of intensive therapy-to include robot-assisted rehabilitation-may yield clinically meaningful outcomes. Objective To test the immediate and sustained effects of intensive therapy (robot-assisted therapy plus intensive conventional therapy) on outcomes in a chronic stroke population. Methods A multivariate mixed-effects model adjusted for important covariates was established to measure the effect of intensive therapy versus usual care. A total of 127 chronic stroke patients from 4 Veterans Affairs medical centers were randomized to either robot-assisted therapy (n = 49), intensive comparison therapy (n = 50), or usual care (n = 28), in the VA-ROBOTICS randomized clinical trial. Patients were at least 6 months poststroke, of moderate-to-severe upper limb impairment. The primary outcome measure was the Fugl-Meyer Assessment at 12 and 36 weeks. Results There was significant benefit of intensive therapy over usual care on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment at 12 weeks with a mean difference of 4.0 points (95% CI = 1.3-6.7); P = .005; however, by 36 weeks, the benefit was attenuated (mean difference 3.4; 95% CI = -0.02 to 6.9; P = .05). Subgroup analyses showed significant interactions between treatment and age, treatment and time since stroke. Conclusions Motor benefits from intensive therapy compared with usual care were observed at 12 and 36 weeks posttherapy; however, this difference was attenuated at 36 weeks. Subgroups analysis showed that younger age, and a shorter time since stroke were associated with greater immediate and long-term improvement of motor function.

Short-Duration and Intensive Training Improves Long-Term Reaching Performance in Individuals With Chronic Stroke

Previous studies have shown that multiple sessions of reach training lead to long-term improvements in movement time and smoothness in individuals post-stroke. Yet such long-term training regimens are often difficult to implement in actual clinical settings. In this study, we evaluated the long-term and generalization effects of short-duration and intensive reach training in 16 individuals with chronic stroke and mild to moderate impairments. Participants performed 2 sessions of unassisted intensive reach training, with 600 movements per session, and with display of performance-based feedback after each movement. The participants' trunks were restrained with a belt to avoid compensatory movements. Training resulted in significant and durable (1 month) improvements in movement time (20.4% on average) and movement smoothness (22.7% on average). The largest improvements occurred in individuals with the largest initial motor impairments. In addition, training induced generalization to nontrained targets, which persisted in 1-day and in 1-month retention tests. Finally, there was a significant improvement in the Box and Block test from baseline to 1-month retention test (23% on average). Thus, short-duration and intensive reach training can lead to generalized and durable benefits in individuals with chronic stroke and mild to moderate impairments.

Group therapy task training versus individual task training during inpatient stroke rehabilitation: a randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of intensive daily applied progressive group therapy task training with equally dosed individual progressive task training on self-reported mobility for patients with moderate to severe stroke during inpatient rehabilitation.

DESIGN

Randomized controlled clinical trial.

SETTING

In-patient rehabilitation center.

SUBJECTS

A total of 73 subacute patients with stroke who were not able to walk without physical assistance at randomisation.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were allocated to group therapy task training (GT) or individual task training (IT). Both interventions were intended to improve walking competency and comprised 30 sessions of 90 minutes over six weeks.

MAIN MEASURES

Primary outcome was the mobility domain of the Stroke Impact Scale (SIS-3.0). Secondary outcomes were the other domains of SIS-3.0, standing balance, gait speed, walking distance, stair climbing, fatigue, anxiety and depression.

RESULTS

No adverse events were reported in either arm of the trial. There were no significant differences between groups for the SIS mobility domain at the end of the intervention (Z= -0.26, P = 0.79). No significant differences between groups were found in gait speed improvements (GT:0.38 ±0.23; IT:0.26±0.35), any other gait related parameters, or in non-physical outcomes such as depression and fatigue.

CONCLUSION

Inpatient group therapy task training for patients with moderate to severe stroke is safe and equally effective as a dose-matched individual task training therapy. Group therapy task training may be delivered as an alternative to individual therapy or as valuable adjunct to increase time spent in gait-related activities.

A Phase 1 exercise dose escalation study for stroke survivors with impaired walking

BACKGROUND

Targeted exercise and increased practice can improve the mobility of stroke survivors. However, many stroke survivors continue to have reduced physical work capacity and impaired walking, and experience frequent falls after participating in physical rehabilitation programs.

AIM

In this Phase 1 study, we used a dose escalation method, common in pharmaceutical trials, to determine the maximum tolerable dose of multimodal exercise in community-dwelling stroke survivors with mobility impairment.

METHODS

Stroke survivors 14-59 months poststroke participated in a 12-week (36 sessions) multimodal exercise program implemented using a cumulative 3 + 3 dose escalation design (featuring increasing doses in successive cohorts of three participants), with set dose-limiting tolerance criteria. The exercise intervention included challenging balance activities, strength, and endurance training. The program was individualized and focused on task-specific requirements for walking in the community.

RESULTS

Six survivors participated before escalation was ceased. Four participants were able to tolerate up to 10·5 h/week of exercise, which included 283 min of endurance, 182 min of task practice, 138 min of strengthening, and 28 min resting. The program led to increased walking distance (Six-Minute Walk Test) and faster mobility (4 Square Step Test, Timed Up and Go Test), with pre-postimprovements averaging 23-41%.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first multimodal exercise dose escalation study in stroke. The maximal dose of exercise identified was dramatically higher than the dose typically delivered to stroke survivors in current trials. We now plan to confirm safety and feasibility of this program in a larger Phase II trial.

Effectiveness of a structured circuit class therapy model in stroke rehabilitation: a protocol for a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Currently, the key advocacy in neuroscientific studies for stroke rehabilitation is that therapy should be directed towards task specificity performed with multiple repetitions. Circuit Class Therapy (CCT) is well suited to accomplish multiple task-specific activities. However, while repetitive task practice is achievable with circuit class therapy, in stroke survivors repetitive activities may be affected by poor neurologic inputs to motor units, resulting in decreases in discharging rates which consequently may reduce the efficiency of muscular contraction. To accomplish multiple repetitions, stroke survivors may require augmented duration of practice. To date, no study has examined the effect of augmented duration of CCT in stroke rehabilitation, and specifically what duration of CCT is more effective in influencing functional capacity among stroke survivors.

METHODS/DESIGN

Using a randomised controlled trial with blinded outcome assessment, this study is aimed at determining the effectiveness of structured augmented CCT in stroke rehabilitation. Sixty-eight stroke survivors (to be recruited from a tertiary health institution in Kano, Northwest, Nigeria) will be randomised into one of four groups: three intervention groups of differing CCT durations namely: 60 min, 90 min, and 120 minuntes respectively, and a control group. Participants will take part in an 8-week structured intensive CCT intervention. Participants will be assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and six-month follow-up for the effectiveness of the varied durations of therapy, using standardised tools. Based on the WHO-ICF model, the outcomes are body structure/function, activity limitation, and participation restriction measures.

DISCUSSION

It is expected that the outcome of this study will clarify whether increasing CCT duration leads to better recovery of motor function in stroke survivors.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR): PACTR201311000701191.

Circuit class therapy or seven-day week therapy for increasing rehabilitation intensity of therapy after stroke (CIRCIT): a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Increased therapy has been linked to improvements in functional ability of people with stroke.

AIM

To determine the effectiveness of two alternative models of increased physiotherapy service delivery (seven-day week therapy or group circuit class therapy five days a week) to usual care.

METHOD

Three-armed randomized controlled trial with blinded assessment of outcome. People admitted with a diagnosis of stroke, previously independently ambulant and with a moderate level of disability were recruited. 'Usual care' was individual physiotherapy provided five-days a week. Seven-day week therapy was usual care physiotherapy provided seven-days a week. Participants in the circuit class therapy arm of the trial received physiotherapy in group circuit classes in two 90-min sessions, five-days a week. Primary outcome was distance walked on the six-minute walk test at four-weeks post-randomization.

RESULTS

Two hundred eighty-three participants were randomized; primary outcome data were available for 259 (92%). In the seven-day arm participants received an additional three hours of physiotherapy and those in the circuit class arm an additional 22 h. There were no significant between-group differences at four-weeks in walking distance (P = 0.72). Length of stay was shorter for seven-day (mean difference -2.9 days, 95% confidence interval -17.9 to 12.0) and circuit class participants (mean difference -9.2 days, 95% confidence interval -24.2 to 5.8) compared to usual care, but this was not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Both seven-day therapy and group circuit class therapy increased physiotherapy time, but walking outcomes were equivalent to usual care.

Effect of task-oriented training for people with stroke: a meta-analysis focused on repetitive or circuit training

PURPOSE

The current meta-analysis reviewed evidence for effective task-oriented training focused on repetitive or circuit training after stroke.

METHOD

Searches were conducted of randomized, controlled trials using task-oriented training. The quality of each study was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Eleven studies were analyzed regarding the magnitude of effect sizes (ESs) and categorized according to extremities focused upon for training, outcome measures, and study variables. This included duration and frequency of training and stroke stage.

RESULTS

The PEDro scores ranged from 4 to 8 (median = 7). The overall ES of the 11 studies was large. The effects for lower extremities and both acute/sub-acute and chronic stage stroke were large and significant. Significant effects were also found for gait velocity, gait endurance, balance, timed up and go test, and strength of the lower extremities. There was no significant effect of training focused on upper extremities. Training with a duration of 2 weeks and frequency of 7 days a week had the greatest effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Task-oriented training interventions are useful for improving muscle strength and gait related activities in both acute/sub-acute and chronic stroke patients. Although this meta-analysis provides evidence of task-oriented training for improving functioning after stroke, further studies are necessary to investigate the effects of training on upper extremities and the overall cost-effectiveness of such training.

Protocol variations and six-minute walk test performance in stroke survivors: a systematic review with meta-analysis

Objective. To investigate the use of the six-minute walk test (6MWT) for stroke survivors, including adherence to 6MWT protocol guidelines and distances achieved. Methods. A systematic search was conducted from inception to March 2014. Included studies reported a baseline (intervention studies) or first instance (observational studies) measure for the 6MWT performed by stroke survivors regardless of time after stroke.  Results. Of 127 studies (participants n = 6,012) that met the inclusion criteria, 64 were also suitable for meta-analysis. Only 25 studies made reference to the American Thoracic Society (ATS) standards for the 6MWT, and 28 reported using the protocol standard 30 m walkway. Thirty-nine studies modified the protocol walkway, while 60 studies did not specify the walkway used. On average, stroke survivors walked 284 ± 107 m during the 6MWT, which is substantially less than healthy age-matched individuals. The meta-analysis identified that changes to the ATS protocol walkway are associated with reductions in walking distances achieved. Conclusion. The 6MWT is now widely used in stroke studies. The distances achieved by stroke patients indicate substantially compromised walking ability. Variations to the standard 30 m walkway for the 6MWT are common and caution should be used when comparing the values achieved from studies using different walkway lengths.

Organisational interventions to reduce length of stay in hospital: a rapid evidence assessment

Background

Available evidence on effective interventions to reduce length of stay in hospital is wide-ranging and complex, with underlying factors including those acting at the health system, organisational and patient levels, and the interface between these. There is a need to better understand the diverse literature on reducing the length of hospital stay.

Objectives

This study sought to (i) describe the nature of interventions that have been used to reduce length of stay in acute care hospitals; (ii) identify the factors that are known to influence length of stay; and (iii) assess the impact of interventions on patient outcomes, service outcomes and costs.

Data sources

We searched MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE, the Health Management Information Consortium and System for Information on Grey Literature in Europe for the period January 1995 to January 2013 with no limitation of publication type.

Methods

We conducted a rapid evidence synthesis of the peer-reviewed literature on organisational interventions set in or initiated from acute hospitals. We considered evidence published between 2003 and 2013. Data were analysed drawing on the principles of narrative synthesis. We also carried out interviews with eight NHS managers and clinical leads in four sites in England.

Results

A total of 53 studies met our inclusion criteria, including 19 systematic reviews and 34 primary studies. Although the overall evidence base was varied and frequently lacked a robust study design, we identified a range of interventions that showed potential to reduce length of stay. These were multidisciplinary team working, for example some forms of organised stroke care; improved discharge planning; early supported discharge programmes; and care pathways. Nursing-led inpatient units were associated with improved outcomes but, if anything, increased length of stay. Factors influencing the impact of interventions on length of stay included contextual factors and the population targeted. The evidence was mixed with regard to the extent to which interventions seeking to reduce length of stay were associated with cost savings.

Limitations

We only considered assessments of interventions which provided a quantitative estimate of the impact of the given organisational intervention on length of hospital stay. There was a general lack of robust evidence and poor reporting, weakening the conclusions that can be drawn from the review.

Conclusions

The design and implementation of an intervention seeking to reduce (directly or indirectly) the length of stay in hospital should be informed by local context and needs. This involves understanding how the intervention is seeking to change processes and behaviours that are anticipated, based on the available evidence, to achieve desired outcomes (‘theory of change’). It will also involve assessing the organisational structures and processes that will need to be put in place to ensure that staff who are expected to deliver the intervention are appropriately prepared and supported. With regard to future research, greater attention should be given to the theoretical underpinning of the design, implementation and evaluation of interventions or programmes. There is a need for further research using appropriate methodology to assess the effectiveness of different types of interventions in different settings. Different evaluation approaches may be useful, and closer relationships between researchers and NHS organisations would enable more formative evaluation. Full economic costing should be undertaken where possible, including considering the cost implications for the wider local health economy.

Funding

The National Institute for Health Research Health Services and Delivery Research programme.

Reorganizing therapy: changing the clinical approach to upper limb recovery post-stroke

Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability, and as a consequence, most therapists will provide health care to patients with stroke during their professional careers. An increasing number of studies are investigating the association between upper limb recovery and changes in brain activation patterns following stroke. In this review, we explore the translational implications of this research for health professionals working in stroke recovery. We argue that in light of the most recent evidence, therapists should consider how best to take full advantage of the brain's natural ability to reorganize, when prescribing and applying interventions to those with a stroke-affected upper limb. The authors propose that stroke is a brain-based problem that needs a brain-based solution. This review addresses two topics, anticipating recovery and maximizing recovery. It proposes five practice-ready recommendations that are based on the evidence reviewed. The over-riding aim of this review and discussion is to challenge therapists to reconsider the health care they prescribe and apply to people with a stroke-affected upper limb.