Impact of a Rehabilitation Program on the Change in Components of Body Mass of the Upper and Lower Limbs in People After Ischemic Stroke

Abstract

Background The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of rehabilitation in terms of changes in the body mass composition in the upper and lower limbs depending on the length of time after stroke and the age of the patient. Material/Methods Eighty-two patients after ischemic stroke were tested 3 times: on admission, after 5 weeks, and 3 months after leaving the hospital (follow-up). During each examination, a segmental analysis of the components of the body mass of the upper limbs and lower limbs was performed, depending on the side of paresis. Results Patients between 7 and 12 months after stroke with right-sided paresis had a reduction of fat ( P =0.027) and an increase in muscle tissue in the lower ( P =0.030) and upper limbs with paresis ( P =0.037), as well as in the healthy upper limb ( P =0.034) after rehabilitation. Only in the youngest age group (25–44 years) and in patients with left-sided paresis was there a decrease of adipose tissue in the healthy upper ( P =0.012) and paresis limbs ( P =0.032) and an increase in the muscle tissue mass in the right upper limb ( P =0.010) after rehabilitation. Conclusions The rehabilitation program had a significant impact on the change in the composition of body mass in upper and lower limbs in people with right-sided paresis, particularly 7 to 12 months after stroke and in the youngest age group (25–44 years). These results may be useful in planning a rehabilitation program for stroke patients to consider the patient’s dominant hand and neglect.

Non-human primate models of focal cortical ischemia for neuronal replacement therapy

“…2 However, once survivors miss the opportunity of revascularization within 24 hours after the initial stroke, they must rely on spontaneous or rehabilitation-supported functional recovery. 3,4 It is reported that almost half of IS patients have lifelong disabilities, 5 and survivors with motor cortex involvement and descending motor fiber damage had shown motor deficits, especially the impairment of hand dexterity, severely affecting their quality of life. 6 To date, neurological deficits in IS patients remain incurable due to the limited regeneration capacity in the central nervous system (CNS).…”

Effect of a visual dual task on postural stability—A comparative study using linear and nonlinear methods

“…This postural instability not only compromises the ability to maintain balance while standing, but also impairs the capacity to regain balance in the face of external destabilizing stimuli 6 . Consequently, individuals with compromised balance face a heightened risk of falling, leading to both economic burdens and social ramifications 7,8 . Given these challenges, stroke rehabilitation primarily focuses on enhancing fall prevention strategies, improving balance, and gait patterns 9,10 …”

“…6 Consequently, individuals with compromised balance face a heightened risk of falling, leading to both economic burdens and social ramifications. 7,8 Given these challenges, stroke rehabilitation primarily focuses on enhancing fall prevention strategies, improving balance, and gait patterns. 9,10 Effective postural stability is crucial for performing routine activities, and attentional cognitive processes play a key role in maintaining a stable posture.…”