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Sex Differences in Physical Activity in People After Stroke: A Cross-sectional Study
Wataru Nakano1, Satomi Kobayashi2, Takayuki Maezawa3
1Department of Physical Therapy, Tokoha University, Japan.
Physical Therapy Research
|January 17, 2022
Summary
Women with stroke engage in more light physical activity and total walking than men. Understanding these sex differences in physical activity is key for developing targeted post-stroke interventions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Science
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Adequate physical activity post-stroke is crucial for cardiovascular health and recovery.
- Sex is a potential influencing factor on physical activity levels after stroke, but the underlying mechanisms require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare sex-based differences in physical activity patterns among individuals who have experienced a stroke.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 62 stroke survivors (42 men, 20 women).
- Physical activity, specifically walking duration, was measured over three consecutive days using a step activity monitor.
- Statistical analysis, including Welch's t-tests or Mann-Whitney U tests, was employed to compare sex differences.
Main Results:
- Women demonstrated significantly longer durations of light physical activity and overall walking compared to men.
- No statistically significant differences were observed between sexes in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels.
Conclusions:
- This study identified distinct sex differences in walking duration post-stroke.
- Women with stroke tend to spend more time engaged in low-intensity physical activity than men.
- Findings can inform the design of tailored interventions to enhance physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior in stroke survivors.

