Brain Stroke: Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Techniques-An Updated Review

Alrasheed, Rasheed Abdulaziz Rasheed; Alanazi, Sami Fahad Saleh; Almutairi, Rasmi Obaid; Alshibani, Reef Mohammed; Daghriri, Rahma Ibrahim Abdullah; Alshammari, Mohammed Matar; Alotaibi, Ahmed Awedh Muslih; Alharbi, Sami Abdullah; Alanazi, Thamer Rifadah; Alharbi, Yousef Mubarak Badia; Alqahtani, Saeed Mohammed Muhy; Alghurab, Adel Mohammed; Alkhutaymi, Dhuha Essa; Hajaji, Azizah Shoei; Alasmari, Adel Sarhan Awadh

doi:10.21608/ejchem.2025.344348.10982

Brain Stroke: Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Techniques-An Updated Review

Document Type : Review Articles

Authors

¹ Al Kharj Armed Forces Hospital (AKMICH), Ministry of Defense, Saudi Arabia

² Prince Sultan Military Medical City (PSMMC), Ministry of Defense, Saudi Arabia

³ Northern Area Armed Forces Hospital, Ministry of Defense, Saudi Arabia

⁴ Health Services Center and School, Ministry of Defense, Saudi Arabia.

10.21608/ejchem.2025.344348.10982

Abstract

Background: Stroke, or cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a leading cause of mortality and long-term disability worldwide, significantly impacting physical, emotional, and socioeconomic well-being. It is categorized into ischemic (80% of cases) and hemorrhagic strokes, with modifiable risk factors such as hypertension, smoking, and physical inactivity playing a critical role in prevention. Post-stroke rehabilitation aims to optimize functional recovery, promote independence, and enhance quality of life through tailored physical therapy interventions.

Aim: This review aims to provide an updated overview of physical therapy and rehabilitation techniques for stroke recovery, emphasizing evidence-based interventions across acute, sub-acute, and chronic phases. It also explores emerging technologies and their role in enhancing rehabilitation outcomes.

Methods: The review synthesizes findings from recent studies and clinical trials on stroke rehabilitation, focusing on physical therapy interventions such as task-specific training, gait training, sensory recovery, spasticity management, and strength training. It also examines the integration of advanced technologies like virtual reality (VR), robotics, and exoskeletons in rehabilitation programs.

Results: Physical therapy interventions, including repetitive task practice, early mobilization, and task-specific training, significantly improving motor function, balance, and quality of life in stroke survivors. Emerging technologies like VR and robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) show promise in enhancing recovery outcomes. Strengthening exercises, sensory interventions, and spasticity management strategies further contribute to functional improvement. However, the efficacy of some interventions, such as sensory recovery techniques, requires further validation through large-scale trials.

Conclusion: Stroke rehabilitation is a multifaceted process that requires a holistic, patient-centered approach. Physical therapy, combined with emerging technologies, plays a pivotal role in optimizing recovery. Future research should focus on refining protocols, addressing limitations, and exploring innovative interventions to improve outcomes for stroke survivors

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