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- Langhammer, Birgitta, et al.
(author)
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Physiotherapy and physical functioning post-stroke : Exercise habits and functioning 4 years later? Long-term follow-up after a 1-year long-term intervention period: A randomized controlled trial
- 2014
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In: Brain Injury. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0269-9052 .- 1362-301X. ; 28:11, s. 1396-1405
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction: Physical activity is mandatory if patients are to remain healthy and independent after stroke. Objective: Maintenance of motor function, tone, grip strength, balance, mobility, gait, independence in personal and instrumental activities of daily living, health-related quality-of-life and an active lifestyle 4 years post-stroke. Methods: A prospective randomized controlled trial. Results: Four years post-stroke, 37 of the 75 participating persons were eligible for follow-up; 19 (54.3%) from the intensive exercise group and 18 (45%) from the regular exercise group. Both groups were performing equally well with no significant differences in total scores on the BI (p=0.3), MAS (p=0.4), BBS (p=0.1), TUG (p=0.08), 6MWT (p=0.1), bilateral grip strength (affected hand, p=0.8; non-affected hand, p=0.9) nor in the items of NHP (p>0.005). Independence in performing the IADL was 40%, while 60% had help from relatives or community-based services. Conclusion: This longitudinal study shows that persons with stroke in two groups with different exercise regimes during the first year after stroke did not differ in long-term outcomes. Both groups maintained function and had a relatively active life style 4 years after the acute incident. The results underline the importance of follow-up testing and encouragement to exercise, to motivate and sustain physical activity patterns, to maintain physical function, not only in the acute but also in the chronic phase of stroke.
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