Effects of premorbid physical activity on stroke severity and post-stroke functioning

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Physical activity levels prior to a stroke can influence recovery.
• Understanding the impact of premorbid lifestyle on post-stroke outcomes is crucial for rehabilitation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between premorbid physical activity and stroke severity.
• To assess the impact of pre-stroke walking habits on functional recovery, including activities of daily living, gait, and balance, in the acute phase and one year after stroke.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 183 patients with first-ever stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) was followed from the acute phase to one-year post-stroke.
• Data collected included demographics, health factors, and stroke classification.
• Premorbid physical activity was assessed using the Walking Habits questionnaire, and functional outcomes were measured using standardized scales (NIHSS, mRS, Barthel ADL, Max Walking Speed, Berg Balance).

Main Results:

• A significant positive correlation was observed between the duration of regular pre-stroke walks and all measured functional outcomes in the acute phase.
• Patients who regularly walked for over 30 minutes per session demonstrated significantly better functional status.
• These associations between pre-stroke walking habits and functional recovery, particularly gait and balance, persisted at the one-year follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Pre-stroke walking habits are significantly associated with functional status following a first-ever stroke.
• Consistent light-intensity physical activity, such as walking for more than 30 minutes weekly, may confer sustained functional benefits after stroke.
• Promoting regular walking as a lifestyle habit could be a valuable preventive and rehabilitative strategy for stroke survivors.