Functional Outcomes of Early Physiotherapy Intervention in Post-Stroke Rehabilitation

Abstract

Stroke is a major cause of disability in the world with serious consequences on motor performance, mobility, and the ability to undertake activities of daily living (ADLs). There is also an indication that early physiotherapy intervention, which should be initiated 24-72 hours after the stroke, can enhance the outcomes of recovery in stroke patients by taking advantage of the neuroplasticity of the brain at the acute stage. This research is intended to determine the measure of functional results of early intervention of physiotherapy in comparison to delayed intervention of physiotherapy (intervention after 714 days) in post-stroke rehabilitation. It was a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of 120 patients who suffered a stroke and were assigned to either the early or the delayed physiotherapy group. The main outcomes were motor activity, measured based on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), and the independence of ADLs, measured based on the Barthel Index. Balance, mobility, and the quality of life were considered as secondary outcomes and measured through the use of the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and the SF-36 Health Survey, respectively. Results showed that early physiotherapy had a positive effect on motor functioning, mobility, balance, and quality of life in comparison to late intervention. These gains were maintained during a period of 3 months. The results indicate that physiotherapy is beneficial and must be established as an initial therapy in the rehabilitation population to maximize patient results.