Very early mobilisation and complications in the first 3 months after stroke: Further results from phase II of a very early rehabilitation trial (AVERT)

Abstract

Background: Interventions that may reduce the number and severity of potentially harmful post-stroke complications are desirable. This study explored whether very early and frequent mobilisation (VEM) affected complication type (immobility/stroke related), number and severity. Methods: Secondary analysis from phase II, randomised controlled trial. Patients admitted within 24 h of stroke, whose physiological parameters fell within set limits, were randomised to either VEM, commencing <24 h, or standard care. Complications to 3 months were recorded by a blinded assessor and classified by a neurologist. Analysis was intention to treat. Results: Seventy-one patients were recruited (standard care..