Early Functional Training in Acute Stroke Inpatient Ward

The Effect of Two Models of an Early Intervention Program on Functional Recovery at Three Months to Acute Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

To investigate the difference between two models of an early intervention program (focused on mobility function) in the functional recovery 3 months post stroke in a group of patients with acute ischemic stroke while in acute inpatient ward hospitalization.

Patients with acute stroke admit into an acute inpatient ward who meet study criteria and provide institutional-reviewed consent form will be randomly assigned into either model 1 or model 2 of an early functional training program. Participants in model 1 group will receive 2 sessions of functional training per day whereas those in model 2 group will receive 1 session of functional training and 1 session of friendly visit and education per day. The following outcomes will be measured at admission, at discharge and at 3 months post stroke: Barthel index (BI), Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke (PASS), Mobility Scale for Acute Stroke (MASA), and usual gait speed (UGS). The rater is blinded to participants' group membership.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patient with acute ischemic stroke / ICH
• referred for early rehabilitation,
• aged 20 years or more,

Exclusion Criteria:

• able to walk independently and safely at admission,
• unable to understand three simple comments,
• unable to recovery even with appropriate medical management,
• serious condition require ICU care,
• terminal illness for hospice care,
• waiting to transfer to long term care facilities