The effects of early rehabilitation on hemiplegic patients caused by stroke

Objective To study the effect of early rehabilitation on motor function of hemiplegic patients after cerebral infarction. Methods Forty two patients were divided into two groups randomly: a rehabilitation group and a control group. Both groups were given the same internal medical treatment to stabilize the patients conditions in the early stage. In addition, the patients in the rehabilitation group were given early formal rehabilitation training, while those in the control group were given no formal rehabilitation training. The results of therapy were assessed by using SIAS method (Stroke Impairment Assessment Set). Results As shown by the SIAS result, the scores of motor function, muscle tone, range of motion (ROM), pain, trunk control and function on the unaffected side in the rehabilitation group were significantly better than those in the control group (all P 0.01). Conclusion Early rehabilitation could significantly improve the functions of hemiplegia patients after cerebral infarction.