Do Physically Active Patients Have Better Functional Outcome after Stroke? A Systematic Review.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability.
• Physical activity may mitigate stroke risk by controlling hypertension, diabetes, and body weight.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the association between prestroke physical activity and poststroke functional outcomes.
• To systematically review existing literature on this topic.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review using MEDLINE/PubMed.
• Analysis based on PRISMA statement guidelines.
• Risk of bias assessment using GRADE methodology.
• Inclusion of three relevant studies.

Main Results:

• One study found no link between prior physical activity and stroke outcome.
• Another study indicated only a minor association.
• The smallest study suggested a protective effect of physical activity.

Conclusions:

• Evidence regarding physical activity's protective effect on stroke outcomes is conflicting.
• Further high-quality longitudinal studies are necessary to establish a definitive relationship.