The necessity and limitations of evidence-based practice in stroke rehabilitation

Evidence-based practice attempts to implement the results of research trials (evidence) and to translate those results into clinical practice, with the presumed goal of improving the effectiveness of clinical care. An empirically validated knowledge base has the potential to substantially increase a clinician's confidence in his or her therapeutic plan. Whether or not research can be a basis for change in practice is a serious ethical consideration. This article argues for the importance of transferring research knowledge on the effectiveness of stroke rehabilitation as quickly as possible to clinical practice, while at the same time acknowledging the ethical issues associated with this process.