Whole-body intensive rehabilitation is feasible and effective in chronic stroke survivors: a retrospective data analysis.

PURPOSE

Upper extremity (UE) intensive repetitive training, locomotor training, and functional strength training, delivered in isolation, promote neural plasticity and functional recovery after stroke. However, the effectiveness of a comprehensive whole-body approach combining these interventions has not been thoroughly investigated. The purpose of this retrospective data analysis was to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of intensive, comprehensive rehabilitation for a heterogeneous population of chronic stroke survivors in a community clinic setting.

METHOD

Whole-body intensive rehabilitation (3-6 hours/day, 4-5 days/week, >or= 2 weeks) consisted of locomotor, balance, and transfer training; progressive resistive strengthening exercise; and repetitive task-specific UE practice. Outcome measures were collected from all patients participating in the program between March 2003 and January 2008 who were diagnosed with a stroke >or= 12 months prior to treatment initiation (N = 35).

RESULTS

Significant improvements in function were observed as measured by the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), Box and Block test, Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up & Go Test (TUG), and 6-minute walk test.

CONCLUSION

Whole-body intensive rehabilitation is an effective and feasible approach to promote recovery in chronic stroke survivors with moderate to severe deficits. Further research is necessary to confirm these results in a more controlled environment.