Occupational therapy for cognitive impairment in stroke patients
Abstract Background Cognitive impairment is a frequent consequence of stroke and can impact on a person’s ability to perform everyday activities. Occupational therapists use a range of interventions when working with people who have cognitive impairment poststroke. This is an update of a Cochrane Review published in 2010. Objectives To assess the impact of occupational […]
Intravenous thrombolytic treatment and endovascular thrombectomy for ischaemic wake‐up stroke
Abstract Background About one in five strokes occur during sleep (wake‐up stroke). People with wake‐up strokes have previously been considered to be ineligible for thrombolytic treatment because the time of stroke onset is unknown. However, recent studies suggest benefit from recanalisation therapies in selected patients. Objectives To assess the effects of intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular […]
Environmental enrichment for stroke and other non‐progressive brain injury
Abstract Background Rehabilitation is effective for recovery after stroke and other non‐progressive brain injuries but it is unclear if the rehabilitation environment itself, outside of limited therapy hours, is maximally conducive to recovery. Environmental enrichment is a relatively new concept within rehabilitation for humans. In this review, this is defined as an intervention designed to […]
Information provision for stroke patients and their caregivers
Abstract Background A stroke is a sudden loss of brain function caused by lack of blood supply. Stroke can lead to death or physical and cognitive impairment and can have long lasting psychological and social implications. Research shows that stroke survivors and their families are dissatisfied with the information provided and have a poor understanding […]
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for stroke recovery
Abstract Background Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) might theoretically reduce post‐stroke disability by direct effects on the brain. This Cochrane Review was first published in 2012 and last updated in 2019. Objectives To determine if SSRIs are more effective than placebo or usual care at improving outcomes in people less than 12 months post‐stroke, and […]
Interventions for improving oral health in people after stroke
Abstract Background For people with physical, sensory and cognitive limitations due to stroke, the routine practice of oral health care (OHC) may become a challenge. Evidence‐based supported oral care intervention is essential for this patient group. Objectives To compare the effectiveness of OHC interventions with usual care or other treatment options for ensuring oral health […]
Implementation interventions to promote the uptake of evidence-based practices in stroke rehabilitation
Abstract Background Rehabilitation based upon research evidence gives stroke survivors the best chance of recovery. There is substantial research to guide practice in stroke rehabilitation, yet uptake of evidence by healthcare professionals is typically slow and patients often do not receive evidence‐based care. Implementation interventions are an important means to translate knowledge from research to […]
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for improving activities of daily living, and physical and cognitive functioning, in people after stroke
Abstract Background Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Functional impairment, resulting in poor performance in activities of daily living (ADL) among stroke survivors is common. Current rehabilitation approaches have limited effectiveness in improving ADL performance, function, muscle strength, and cognitive abilities (including spatial neglect) after stroke, with improving cognition being the […]
Electromechanical-assisted training for walking after stroke
Abstract Background Electromechanical‐ and robot‐assisted gait‐training devices are used in rehabilitation and might help to improve walking after stroke. This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2007 and previously updated in 2017. Objectives Primary • To determine whether electromechanical‐ and robot‐assisted gait training versus normal care improves walking after stroke Secondary […]
Motor imagery for gait rehabilitation after stroke
Abstract Background Motor imagery (MI) is defined as a mentally rehearsed task in which movement is imagined but is not performed. The approach includes repetitive imagined body movements or rehearsing imagined acts to improve motor performance. Objectives To assess the treatment effects of MI for enhancing ability to walk among people following stroke. Search methods […]