Priming the Rehabilitation Engine: Aerobic Exercise as the Fuel to Spark Behavioral Improvements in Stroke
Stroke is a leading cause of disability in the U.S. and many Veteran stroke survivors live with severe disability. Despite recent advances in rehabilitation treatments many stroke survivors have persistent physical and mental difficulties such as reduced physical and cognitive function and depression. Developing innovative treatments that address these problems is necessary to improve long-term outcomes for stroke survivors. Aerobic exercise (AEx) can improve physical and cognitive function, and reduce depression. Additionally, AEx may enhance physical rehabilitation by making the brain more receptive to, and consequently improving the response to an intervention. Therefore, combining AEx with physical rehabilitation has the potential to improve multiple aspects of stroke recovery. This study will examine the effect of combining AEx with physical rehabilitation on physical and mental function in stroke survivors. By gaining a better understanding of the effects of this combined intervention the investigators aim to advance the rehabilitative care of Veteran stroke survivors.
• experienced unilateral stroke at least 6 months prior;
• voluntarily shoulder flexion of the affected arm 20 degrees with simultaneous elbow extension 10 degrees;
• moderate arm movement impairment (UE Fugl-Meyer Assessment \> 21 but \< 52 points;
• passive range of motion in paretic shoulder, elbow, wrist, thumb and fingers within 20 degrees of normal;
• 50-90 years of age;
• ability to communicate as per the therapists' judgement at baseline testing;
• ability to complete and pass an exercise tolerance test; 8) Box \& Block test score of at least 3 blocks in 60 seconds with the affected arm.