The therapeutic effect of treatment with RehaCom software on verbal performance in patients with multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by central nervous system lesions that lead to neurological dysfunctions including fatigue, depression and anxiety. MS is affecting almost 2.3 million people around the world, with the significant highest prevalence in the North America. MS also affects different cognitive abilities, such as attention, memory and executive functions. Furthermore, a significant impairment in verbal fluency and naming abilities in patients with MS has been reported. RehaCom, is a software that has improvement effects on cognitive functions. The goal of this research is to investigate the effect of treatment with RehaCom on verbal performance in patients with MS. To select the participants, 60 patients with MS who referred to our clinic were chosen randomly and divided into Control (n = 30) and Experimental (n = 30) groups. The participants in the experimental group were treated by RehaCom software for 10 sessions during 5 weeks (2 sessions per week and each session was 1 h). Controlled Oral Word Association Test (COWAT) and California Verbal Learning Test – Second Edition (CVLT-II), were used to assess verbal performance (verbal fluency, and verbal learning and memory) at weeks 0 (baseline), 5 (post-test) and 10 (follow-up). The results showed that, treatment with RehaCom improved verbal performance in patient with MS, at both post-test and follow-up stages. In conclusion, treatment with RehaCom cognitive rehabilitation software can improve verbal fluency, and verbal learning and memory in patient with MS, possibly by affecting the brain regions involved in language performance.     

Functional outcomes of inpatient rehabilitation in very elderly patients with stroke: differences across three age groups

Background As the population continues to age rapidly, clarifying the factors affecting the prognosis in very elderly stroke patients is essential to enhance the quality of their rehabilitation.

Objectives To compare the functional recovery of elderly stroke patients classified into three age groups and to identify the predictors of functional recovery in the very elderly following acute inpatient rehabilitation.

Methods Observational study: We collected data on 461 stroke patients in the neurology and neurosurgery ward and classified them into three age groups (65–74, 75–84, and ≥ 85 years). Functional recovery was compared among groups using the functional independence measure (FIM) at discharge and ADL recovery rate was compared using the Montebello rehabilitation factor score (MRFS). Multiple regression analysis was used to identify and compare the factors associated with functional recovery in each age group.

Results Functional recovery in the ≥ 85 years group was lower than that in other age groups. Factors associated with activities of daily living (ADL) status (FIM at discharge) in the ≥ 85 years group were premorbid dependence (β = -0.183, p = 0.011), motor paralysis (β = -0.238, p = 0.001), and cognitive function (β = 0.586, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the impact of cognitive function grew as age increased. Factors associated with ADL recovery rates (MRFS) in the ≥ 85 years group were non-paretic limb function (β = -0.294, p = 0.004) and cognitive function (β = 0.201, p = 0.047).

Conclusions This study identified the factors associated with functional recovery among very elderly stroke patients. Effective forms of rehabilitation for very elderly stroke patients that take these factors into consideration need to be investigated.     

The effect of early cognitive training and rehabilitation for patients with cognitive dysfunction in stroke

ObjectiveThis article explores the effects of early cognitive training and rehabilitation for patients with cognitive dysfunction in stroke.MethodsStroke patients have cognitive dysfunction, and the incidence of cognitive dysfunction in stroke patients is six to nine times that of patients without stroke. This article selects 118 patients with stroke in our hospital from August 2017 to August 2019, 42 patients with stroke disorders randomly divided into two groups. Both groups of patients received conventional rehabilitation training, and the observation group performed motion observation therapy in virtual reality equipment based on conventional cognitive training. Analysis of time parameters related to rehabilitation training before and after treatment, and evaluation of standard health effects.ResultsAfter 4 weeks of treatment, the cognitive training time parameters of the two groups were compared. The cognitive reaction time was shorter than that before treatment. After treatment, the scores of cognitive training and rehabilitation effects were significantly lower than those before treatment, and the two scores of the observation group were significantly lower than those of the control group.ConclusionStroke patients receive early cognitive training with the support of computer‐assisted technology to obtain good rehabilitation results.     

EFFICACY OF MIRROR THERAPY AND CONSTRAINT INDUCED MOVEMENT THERAPY ON UPPER EXTREMITY FUNCTION AND ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING IN STROKE

BackgroundStroke has been identified as an epidemic and an important cause of morbidity and mortality globally, and at least 85% of stroke survivors experience hemiplegia and upper-extremity function of at least 69% of patients are affected. Over 50% of stroke survivors have impairment of motor function of the upper extremity; therefore there is pertinent need to use functional rehabilitation approaches such as; mirror therapy and constraint induced movement therapy for stroke survivors to regain upper extremity motor function.AimsTo compare the efficacy of mirror therapy (MT) with constraint induced movement therapy (CIMT) on the upper extremity motor function and activities of daily living (ADL) in chronic stroke survivors.Methods30 stroke survivors were recruited for this study. They were randomized into three groups, the MT plus conventional therapy group, CIMT plus conventional therapy group and control group. Upper extremity motor function and ADL were assessed. Participants were assessed at baseline and after seven weeks of intervention.ResultsThe MT and CIMT groups’ intervention both had significant improvement on upper extremity motor function and ADL, however, there was no significant difference on upper motor function (p=0.503) and ADL (p=0.133) across the three groups.ConclusionThis study concluded that neither of MT nor CIMT had an additional significant improvement compared to conventional therapy alone on recovery of motor function in the upper extremity and performance of ADL.     

Sarcopenia Affects Functional Independence Measure motor Scores in Elderly Patients with Stroke

ObjectivesThere is no unified view of the relationship between sarcopenia and the activities of daily living (ADL) in stroke patients. This study aimed to determine whether sarcopenia affects the ADL in elderly patients with stroke.Materials and methodsThis case-control study included 472 stroke patients aged ≥ 65 years who were admitted to the convalescent rehabilitation ward. Sarcopenia was defined as a decrease in both the skeletal muscle mass index and handgrip strength, based on the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 criteria cut-off, which was assessed on admission. ADL was assessed using the Functional Independence Measure-motor (FIM-m) score at discharge. The Charlson comorbidity index, Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form, Brunnstrom recovery stage of the upper limb, Brunnstrom recovery stage of the lower limb and total amount of rehabilitation during hospitalization were evaluated as confounding factors. To clarify whether sarcopenia affects the ADL in patients with stroke, we conducted a multiple regression analysis with the presence of sarcopenia as the independent variable and FIM-m at discharge as the objective variable.ResultsThe final analysis included 283 patients; among them, 163 (57.6%) patients had sarcopenia at the time of admission to the convalescent rehabilitation ward. In the multiple regression analysis, sarcopenia was independently associated with FIM-m at hospital discharge, even after adjusting for confounders (β = -0.100, p = 0.034).ConclusionsSarcopenia at admission in elderly patients with stroke affected the FIM-m at discharge, even after adjusting for multiple confounders.     

Combination of Exoskeletal Upper Limb Robot and Occupational Therapy Improve Activities of Daily Living Function in Acute Stroke Patients

Purpose: Previous studies have suggested that upper limb rehabilitation using therapeutic robots improves motor function of stroke patients. However, the effect of upper limb robotic rehabilitation on improving functioning in activities of daily living (ADL) remains unclear. The present study aimed to determine whether upper limb rehabilitation using single joint Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL-SJ) affects ADL function and the use of a hemiparetic arm in ADLs of acute stroke patients. Materials and Methods: Twelve acute stroke patients participated in the study and were randomly divided into group A or group B. The patients in group A followed an A-B-A-B design and those in group B followed a B-A-B-A design. The patients received combination HAL-SJ and occupational therapy during A and conventional occupational therapy during B. Results: Upper limb motor function and ADLs, in particular, dressing the upper body, were improved during combination HAL-SJ and occupational therapy. Interestingly, the use of a hemiparetic arm in daily life evaluated using the motor activity log was also significantly improved during A in group A. Conclusions: Combination HAL-SJ and occupational therapy affects ADL function and real use of a hemiparetic arm in the daily life of acute stroke patients.     

根据Brunnstrom分期制定针对性康复方案对脑卒中患者康复效果的影响

目的探讨Brunnstrom分期制定针对性康复方案对脑卒中患者康复效果的影响作用。方法选取90例脑卒中患者采用随机数字表法分为实验组和对照组各45例,实验组依据Brunnstrom分期制定针对性康复方案,对照组给予常规康复治疗方法。结果康复治疗前实验组和对照组的Fugl-Meyer运动功能评分法(FAM)、改良Barthel指数(MBI)、运动功能评估量表(MAS)、美国国立卫生研究院神经功能缺损量表(NIHSS)评分和脑卒中专用生存质量量表(SS-QOL)评分差异均不具有统计学意义(P0.05)。康复治疗后实验组的FAM评分(48.2±7.6)分、MBI评分(58.2±11.6)分、MAS评分(33.7±6.2)分和SS-QOL评分(44.8±5.3)分均高于对照组的(29.6±5.7)分、(53.6±9.8)分、(29.6±5.7)分和(40.2±5.0)分,差异均具有统计学意义(P0.05);实验组NIHSS评分(13.5±3.8)分显著低于对照组的(15.7±4.0)分,差异具有统计学意义(P0.05)。结论 Brunnstrom分期制定针对性康复方案较常规康复治疗对脑卒中患者具有更加显著的康复效果,具有提高患者生活质量的作用。     

Effects of Exoskeletal Lower Limb Robot Training on the Activities of Daily Living in Stroke Patients: Retrospective Pre-Post Comparison Using Propensity Score Matched Analysis

PurposeThere is limited evidence of gait training using newly developed exoskeletal lower limb robot called Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) on the function and ability to perform ADL in stroke patients. In clinical settings, we frequently find it challenging to conduct a randomized controlled trial; thus, a large-scale observational study using propensity score analysis methods is a feasible alternative. The present study aimed to determine whether exoskeletal lower limb robot training improved the ability to perform ADL in stroke patients.Materials and methodsAcute stroke patients who were admitted to our facility from April 2016 to March 2017 were evaluated in the conventional rehabilitation period (CRP) and those admitted from April 2017 to June 2019 were evaluated in the HAL rehabilitation period (HRP). We started a new gait rehabilitation program using HAL at the midpoint of these two periods. The functional outcomes or ADL ability outcomes of the patients in the CRP and the subsequent HRP were compared using propensity score matched analyses.ResultsPropensity score matching analysis was performed for 108 stroke patients (63 from the CRP and 45 from the HRP), and 36 pairs were matched. The ADL ability, defined by the FIM scores and FIM score change, was significantly higher in patients admitted during the HRP. In addition, more stroke patients obtained practical walking ability during hospitalization in the HRP.ConclusionGait training using HAL affects the ADL ability and obtaining of practical walking ability of stroke patients.     

Post-stroke cognitive impairment and the risk of stroke recurrence and death in patients with insulin resistance

ObjectivePost-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is associated with etiology, severity, and functional outcome of stroke. The risks of recurrent stroke and death in patients with PSCI and insulin resistance (IR) is unknown. The goal of this study was to determine whether global and domain-specific cognitive impairment after stroke in patients with IR was associated with recurrent stroke and death.Materials and MethodsWe studied patients with recent stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) and IR with a baseline Modified Mini-Mental State Examination (3MS) cognitive exam at median of 79 days after stroke. We considered a baseline score of ≤ 88 on the 3MS to indicate global cognitive impairment, and domain-specific summary scores in the lowest quartile to indicate language, attention, orientation, memory and visuospatial impairments. The primary endpoint was fatal or non-fatal recurrent stroke, and the secondary endpoints were all-cause mortality, and fatal or non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI).ResultsAmong studied n = 3,338 patients 13.6% had global cognitive impairment. During the median 4.96 years of follow-up, 7.4% patients experienced recurrent stroke, 3.5% MI, and 7.3% died. In the fully adjusted model, impairment in language (HR 1.35; 95% CI 1.01—1.81) and orientation (HR 1.41; 95% CI: 1.06—1.87) were associated with a higher risk of recurrent stroke, while attention impairment was associated with all-cause mortality (HR 1.34; 95% CI: 1.01—1.78).Discussion/ConclusionIn patients with recent stroke/TIA and IR, post-stroke language and orientation impairments independently predicted recurrent stroke, while attention deficit was associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality.     

Effects of trunk rehabilitation with kinesio and placebo taping on static and dynamic sitting postural control in individuals with chronic stroke: A randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT

Background: Impaired trunk postural control is common after stroke. Combining kinesio taping with trunk rehabilitation has been shown to enhance the recovery of postural control ability in patients with stroke.

Objective: We investigated whether the combination of kinesio taping with trunk rehabilitation would improve dynamic and static sitting stability after stroke.

Methods: Twenty-eight patients with stroke were recruited and randomly assigned to one of the two 8-week trunk rehabilitation programs with kinesio (experimental group) or placebo taping (control group). Outcome measures were dynamic forward, dynamic backward, affected-side, and unaffected-side sway areas, static sway area and length, and the total limit of stability (LOS) area. The variables were measured using the BioRescue analysis system. All outcome measures were assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks of trunk rehabilitation.

Results: Significant increases were observed in the dynamic forward, dynamic backward, affected-side, and unaffected-side sway areas, and the total LOS area, in the experimental and control groups, whereas decreases were observed in the static sway area and length. The dynamic forward sway area was significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group, but there were no significant differences between the groups in the other variables.

Conclusions: Trunk rehabilitation is effective for improving dynamic and static sitting stability after stroke. The addition of kinesio taping to the back muscles further increases forward mobility.     

Predictors of depressive symptoms in patients with stroke – a three-month follow-up

Background and purposeDepression is one of the most common post-stroke complications, which could impair rehabilitation outcome and quality of life, and could also increase mortality after stroke. The aim of the present study was to assess the association between demographic, socioeconomic and clinical (stroke risk factors, type of stroke, location of vascular lesion, cognitive functions) factors on the presence and severity of post-stroke depressive symptoms in patients after first ever stroke as well as on their social functioning.Material and methodsA prospective, cohort study with a three-month observation period was performed in seven centres. Severity of depressive symptoms was assessed with the help of a short, 15-item version of the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), 3 months after stroke onset.ResultsOn the basis of GDS (GDS ≤ 5 points or > 5 points) patients were allocated to a group without (n = 160) or with symptoms suggestive of depression (n = 82). The study groups did not differ with respect to age, sex or place of residence. Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that independent predictors for the presence of symptoms suggestive of depression at 3 months after stroke were: low level of education, low income, greater severity of stroke, worse functional status, self-reported problems with daily-living activities and need of help in daily living activities. More than 60% of patients with depressive symptoms limited their social contacts. Patients with depressive symptoms were unsatisfied with their relations with life partners and friends.ConclusionsOur study showed a complex aetiology of post-stroke depressive symptoms with an important role of socioeconomic factors. Depressive symptoms after stroke worsen existing health, social and economic problems, and cause social isolation of patients.     

Effects of Bihemispheric Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Upper Extremity Function in Stroke Patients: A randomized Double-Blind Sham-Controlled Study

Background and PurposeTranscranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a treatment used in the rehabilitation of stroke patients aiming to improve functionality of the plegic upper extremity. Currently, tDCS is not routinely used in post stroke rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to establish the effects of bihemspheric tDCS combined with physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) on upper extremity motor function.MethodsThirty-two stroke inpatients were randomised into 2 groups. All patients received 15 sessions of conventional upper extremity PT and OT over 3 weeks. The tDCS group (n = 16) also received 30 minutes of bihemispheric tDCS and the sham group (n = 16) 30 minutes of sham bihemispheric tDCS simultaneously to OT. Patients were evaluated before and after treatment using the Fugl Meyer upper extremity (FMUE), functional independence measure (FIM), and Brunnstrom stages of stroke recovery (BSSR) by a physiatrist blind to the treatment groupResultsThe improvement in FIM was higher in the tDCS group compared to the sham group (P = .001). There was a significant within group improvement in FMUE, FIM and BSSR in those receiving tDCS (P = .001). There was a significant improvement in FIM in the chronic (> 6months) stroke sufferers who received tDCS when compared to those who received sham tDCS and when compared to subacute stroke (3-6 months) sufferers who received tDCS/sham.ConclusionsUpper extremity motor function in hemiplegic stroke patients improves when bihemispheric tDCS is used alongside conventional PT and OT. The improvement in functionality is greater in chronic stroke patients.     

电刺激联合重复经颅磁刺激对脑卒中患者偏侧忽略的影响

目的观察功能性电刺激联合重复经颅磁刺激(r TMS)对脑卒中患者偏侧忽略的影响。方法 40例脑卒中后偏侧忽略患者被随机分为观察组和对照组,每组各20例。2组患者均接受常规康复治疗和r TMS,观察组加以功能性电刺激治疗。采用行为忽略学测试(BIT)、凯瑟琳博格量表(CBS)、改良巴氏指数(MBI)及Fugl-Meyer上肢运动评定(FMA-UE)对治疗前后的偏侧忽略进行评定。结果治疗前,2组患者在年龄、性别、病程、卒中类型及MMSE评分比较,差异无统计学意义(P 0. 05)。治疗后,观察组在BIT(93. 7±6. 5)、CBS(13. 0±2. 6)、MBI(43. 5±4. 0)及FMA-UE(26. 6±5. 2)显著改善,差异有统计学意义(P 0. 05);对照组在BIT(80. 3±6. 9)、CBS(16. 1±3. 6)、MBI(37. 1±2. 4)及FMA-UE(18. 8±4. 1]改善,差异有统计学意义(P 0. 05)。观察组各项评分均优于对照组,差异有统计学意义(P 0. 05)。结论功能性电刺激联合r TMS能更有效改善脑卒中偏侧忽略,可作为偏侧忽略的联合治疗策略。     

Memory rehabilitation for the working memory of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS)

Objective: The main cognitive impairments in multiple sclerosis (MS) affect the working memory, processing speed, and performances that are in close interaction with one another. Cognitive problems in MS are influenced to a lesser degree by disease recovery medications or treatments,but cognitive rehabilitation is considered one of the promising methods for cure. There is evidence regarding the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation for MS patients in various stages of the disease. Since the impairment in working memory is one of the main MS deficits, a particular training that affects this cognitive domain can be of a great value. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of memory rehabilitation on the working memory performance of MS patients.

Method: Sixty MS patients with cognitive impairment and similar in terms of demographic characteristics, duration of disease, neurological problems, and mental health were randomly assigned to three groups: namely, experimental, placebo, and control. Patients’ cognitive evaluation incorporated baseline assessments immediately post-intervention and 5 weeks post-intervention. The experimental group received a cognitive rehabilitation program in one-hour sessions on a weekly basis for 8 weeks. The placebo group received relaxation techniques on a weekly basis; the control group received no intervention.

Results: The results of this study showed that the cognitive rehabilitation program had a positive effect on the working memory performance of patients with MS in the experimental group. These results were achieved in immediate evaluation (post-test) and follow-up 5 weeks after intervention. There was no significant difference in working memory performance between the placebo group and the control group.

Conclusions: According to the study, there is evidence for the effectiveness of a memory rehabilitation program for the working memory of patients with MS. Cognitive rehabilitation can improve working memory disorders and have a positive effect on the working memory performance of these patients.     

The Adjunct of Electric Neurostimulation to Rehabilitation Approaches in Upper Limb Stroke Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review With Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

ObjectiveThis review analyzed the current evidence and the potential for the application of electric neurostimulation such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in upper limb stroke rehabilitation.Materials and MethodsWe performed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using network meta-analysis (NMA), searching the following data bases: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Google Scholar, using specific keywords, from January 2010 to April 2021, and assessing the effects of “tDCS” or “VNS” combined with other therapies on upper limb motor function and activities of daily living (ADL) after stroke.ResultsWe included 38 RCTs with 1261 participants. Pairwise NMA showed transcutaneous VNS (tVNS) and anodal tDCS were effective in improving upper limb motor function (tVNS: mean difference [MD]: 5.50; 95% CI [0.67–11.67]; p < 0.05; anodal tDCS: MD: 5.23; 95% CI [2.45–8.01]; p < 0.05). tVNS and tDCS (anodal and cathodal) were also effective in improving ADL performance after stroke (tVNS: standard MD [SMD]: 0.96; 95% CI [0.15–2.06]; p < 0.05; anodal tDCS: SMD: 3.78; 95% CI [0.0–7.56]; p < 0.05; cathodal tDCS: SMD: 5.38; 95% CI [0.22–10.54]; p < 0.05). Surface under the cumulative ranking curve analysis revealed that tVNS is the best ranked treatment in improving upper limb motor function and performance in ADL after stroke. There was no difference in safety between VNS and its control interventions, measured by reported adverse events (VNS: risk ratio = 1.02 [95% CI = 0.48–2.17; I² = 0; p = 0.96]).ConclusionModerate- to high-quality evidence suggests that tVNS and anodal tDCS were effective in improving upper limb motor function in both acute/subacute and chronic stroke. In addition to tVNS and anodal tDCS, cathodal tDCS is also effective in improving ADL performance after stroke.     

Effect of baclofen combined with neural facilitation technique on the reduction of muscular spasm in patients with spinal cord injury

BACKGROUND: Recent researches have demonstrated that baclofen is a commonly central anti-spasm drug. In addition, neural facilitation technique based on nerve development and neurophysiology is widely used for rehabilitation training of motor disorder after central nerve injury. However, whether baclofen combining with neural facilitation technique can relieve muscular spasm after spinal cord injury needs further studies. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of baclofen combining with neural facilitation technique on decreasing muscular tension in two lower extremities after spinal cord injury. DESIGN: Randomized controlled study. SETTING: Departments of Rehabilitation and Orthopaedics, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical College. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 28 patients with spinal cord injury, including 17 males and 11 females, whose age ranged from 31 to 71 years, were selected from Departments of Rehabilitation and Orthopaedics, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical College from March 2005 to September 2006. The illness course ranged from 22 to 54 days and the mean course was (38±8) days. All patients were diagnosed as the first onset and the increase of extensor muscular tension in two lower extremities after thoracic vertebra injury by using spine MR or CT examination. Informed consents were obtained from all the patients. METHODS: All 28 patients who had upper motor neuronal paralysis in two lower extremities after spinal cord injury in thoracic vertebra region were randomly divided into treatment group and control group with 14 cases in each group. Patients in both groups received routine therapy, while those in the treatment group were treated with oral baclofen (the beginning dosage: 5 mg/time; three times per day, 5 mg was increased every three days; the maximal dosage was 60 mg/day; 6 weeks in total) (made in Weicai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.; tablet; batch number: HC20040029) combining with neural facilitation technique, which accorded to Rood technique (slight joint extrusion, slow and persistent stretch, etc.), Brunnstrom technique (non-symmetric cervical reflex: head turning to one side promoting contralateral flexuosity in both upper and lower extremities) and Bobath technique (reflective inhibition, such as reducing supine position; increasing lateral recumbent position, rolling in bed and posture transfer; controlling key sites; 6 weeks in total). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: At 6 weeks after treatment, modified Ashworth grading method and Barthel Index were used to detect extensor muscular tension in two lower extremities and activities of daily living (ADL) of patients in both groups. RESULTS: ① Grade of muscular tension in two lower extremities: At 6 weeks after treatment, muscular tension in the treatment group was classified into gradeⅠ (n =12), gradeⅡ (n =2) and grade Ⅲ(n =0), which was markedly improved as compared with that in the control group [grade Ⅰ (n =6), grade Ⅱ (n =4) and grade Ⅲ (n =4)]. In addition, there was significant difference between the two groups (P < 0.05). ② ADL ability: Barthel Index of patients with complete and incomplete spinal cord injury in the treatment group was higher than that in the control group at 6 weeks after treatment, and there was significant difference between them (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Baclofen combining with neural facilitation technique can not only remarkably relieve muscular tension of upper motor neuronal paralysis after spinal cord injury, but also obviously accelerate recoveries of motor functional and ADL ability.     

Association of Activities of Daily Living with Body Weight Change 3 Months After Stroke Onset

ObjectivesTo investigate the relationship between body weight loss and activities of daily living (ADL) 3 months after stroke onset.Materials and MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included 81 patients at a rehabilitation hospital after receiving acute treatment at our hospital (mean age 70.7 years). Patients were divided into two groups, namely independent and non-independent, based on their ADL 3 months after stroke. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed with the ADL independence possibility as the objective variable and body weight change rate (%) at 3 months as the explanatory variable. Patients were classified using the weight change rate calculated from the ROC curve and the NIHSS cut-off values, and the ADL independence percentage was compared.ResultsThe ADL-independent group had significantly lesser body weight loss than the non-independent group (median rate of body weight change: -2.7% vs. -7.2%; p<0.001). The area under the ROC curve was 0.76. The cut-off value was -5.6% for the body weight change rate. When participants with NIHSS ≤ 8 points were selected, the ADL-independent participants’ proportion was significantly higher in the body weight loss ≤ -5.6% group than in the > -5.6% group (56.0% vs. 15.4%, p=0.016). However, there was no significant difference in the ADL-independent participants’ proportion when those with NIHSS >8 points were selected (p=0.19).ConclusionsOur findings indicate that weight loss after stroke onset is associated with non-independent ADL at 3 months. Weight maintenance from the onset is important for ADL independence, especially in patients with mild to moderate stroke.     

Development of early comprehensive stroke inpatient rehabilitation in Poland - current status and future requirements

Background and purposeEvery stroke patient should undergo early rehabilitation. We aimed to evaluate accessibility, development and needs in early stroke inpatient rehabilitation in Poland.Material and methodsA questionnaire evaluating rehabilitation departments was prepared and sent (in 2004 and 2008) to rehabilitation wards in Poland, where stroke patients are treated and undergo early rehabilitation. We divided departments into classes: class A – having comprehensive rehabilitation (physiotherapy minimum 60 minutes/day, speech therapy minimum 30 minutes/5 days/week, rehabilitation of other cognitive impairments minimum 30 minutes/5 days/week, group physiotherapy); B – having the possibility of all types of therapy, but done less frequently; C – physiotherapy and speech therapy; D – physiotherapy and cognitive rehabilitation; E – only physiotherapy.ResultsIn 2004, we obtained responses from 115 of 172 (66.9%) rehabilitation departments. According to prespecified criteria there were 11 class A, 31 class B, 28 class C, 4 class D, and 41 class E wards. In 2008, we received response from 89 of 149 (59.7%) rehabilitation departments. According to prespecified criteria there were 17 class A, 40 class B, 22 class C, 0 class D, and 10 class E wards. In 2004, 159 beds and in 2008, 294 beds in class A departments were available for stroke patients. The minimal number of needed but lacking beds was 604 in 2004 and 469 in 2008.ConclusionsDevelopment of departments providing early comprehensive stroke rehabilitation from 2004 to 2008 is marked, but still insufficient. In 2008, 19% of rehabilitation departments could provide comprehensive stroke rehabilitation and this was 38.5% of beds actually needed.     

Effect of Care Capacity on Stroke Patients’ Recovery in Activities of Daily Living: A Multi-Hospital Study

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate whether care capacity for patients following stroke contributes to improved activities of daily living (ADL) at discharge from hospital based on the degree of stroke severity.DesignRetrospective, observational, longitudinal study.SettingAcute phase hospitals.ParticipantsFrom 2005 to 2011, 5006 patients with stroke at acute phase hospitals were registered in a database. There were 2501 individuals from 11 hospitals who met the following four criteria: (1) a pre-stroke modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0–3; (2) admission to hospital within 7 days of suffering a stroke; (3) ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke; and (4) staying in hospital for 8–60 days.Main outcome measuresThe main outcome measure was the Functional Independence Measure (FIM, version 3.0) score at discharge. The FIM is an internationally used scale, which is used as an ADL outcome assessment scale for after rehabilitation.ResultsAmong patients with stroke, those with care capacity had higher FIM scores at hospital discharge than did those without care capacity (unstandardized coefficient = 2.3, P = 0.015). Examination of this relationship by stroke severity showed that the FIM score at discharge was only significantly higher in patients who suffered from a moderate to severe stroke (unstandardized coefficient = 7.0, P = 0.040). No associations were observed in patients who suffered from minor, moderate, or severe stroke.ConclusionsThese results suggest that care capacity facilitates total recovery of the FIM, especially among patients who suffer from a moderate to severe stroke.