When should physical rehabilitation commence after stroke: A systematic review

Abstract

Background: Knowing when to commence physical rehabilitation after stroke is important to ensure optimal benefit for stroke survivors and efficient health care. The aims of this review were to: determine the effects on mortality, function and complications when physical rehabilitation commences 'early' (within seven days of stroke); and describe the effects of early transfer to rehabilitation wards/hospitals when sustained rehabilitation is unavailable in acute stroke units. Review summary: From 3751 potential articles we included 5 randomized controlled trials and 38 cohort studies. Meta-analysis was performed with 3 randomized controlled trials involving 159 people to investigate the effec..