Effectiveness of a home-based exercise program among patients with lower limb spasticity post-stroke: A randomized...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Gerontology

Background:

• Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability.
• Lower limb spasticity significantly impacts mobility and independence post-stroke.
• Effective rehabilitation strategies are crucial for functional recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a home-based rehabilitation exercise program (HREPro) guided by advanced practice nurses.
• To assess HREPro's impact on lower limb spasticity in post-stroke patients.
• To determine the feasibility of HREPro for home application.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 121 patients with lower limb spasticity post-stroke.
• Intervention group (n=59) received 12-month HREPro; control group (n=62) received conventional rehabilitation.
• Evaluated spasticity, motor function, walking ability, and ADL at baseline and 3, 6, 12 months post-discharge.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in spasticity, motor function, walking ability, and ADL were observed at 6 and 12 months in the HREPro group compared to controls.
• The intervention group showed significant reductions in lower limb spasticity.
• Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scores significantly improved in the HREPro group.

Conclusions:

• The HREPro is an effective rehabilitation strategy for post-stroke patients with lower limb spasticity.
• HREPro demonstrates favorable home application, enhancing patient accessibility and adherence.
• This program offers a promising approach to improve functional outcomes and quality of life for stroke survivors.