Ergometer training in stroke rehabilitation: systematic review and meta-analysis

I wish I'd known about this when going thru my divorce, I would have requested our Concept II ergometer.  But followup needed for your doctor and stroke hospital to ensure it gets done. No followup have your board of directors and president fired. We need to clean out a lot of dead wood in stroke because NOTHING is being done to get to 100% recovery.

Ergometer training in stroke rehabilitation: systematic review and meta-analysis

Dr. Jitka Veldema^1,∗,Correspondence information about the author Dr. Jitka VeldemaEmail the author Dr. Jitka Veldema

,

Prof. Petra Jansen¹

Abstract

Objective

Ergometer training is routinely used in stroke rehabilitation. How robust is the evidence of its effects?

Data source

The PubMed database and PEDro database were reviewed prior to 22/01/2019.

Study selection

Randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of ergometer training on stroke recovery were selected.

Data extraction

Two reviewers independently selected the studies, performed independent data extraction, and assessed the risk of bias.

Data synthesis

A total of 28 studies (including 1115 stroke subjects) were included. The data indicates that (1) ergometer training leads to a significant improvement of walking ability, cardiorespiratory fitness, motor function and muscular force of lower limbs, balance and postural control, spasticity, cognitive abilities, as well as the brain’s resistance to damage and degeneration, (2) neuromuscular functional electrical stimulation assisted ergometer training is more efficient than ergometer training alone, (3) high-intensity ergometer training is more efficient that low-intensity ergometer training, and (4) ergometer training is more efficient than other therapies in supporting cardiorespiratory fitness, independence in activities of daily living, and balance and postural control, but less efficient in improving walking ability.

Conclusion

Ergometer training can support motor recovery after stroke. However, current data is insufficient for evidence-based rehabilitation. More data is required about the effects of ergometer training on cognitive abilities, emotional status, and quality of life in stroke subjects.