Researchers at the University of Kansas Medical Center know exercise after a stroke is beneficial. What they’d like to figure out is how much and how intense that exercise should be for maximum benefit. To do that, researchers are leading a national study to determine what “dose” of exercise works best. Among the options examined will be high-intensity exercise, which is popular now with many fitness centers.
“Exercise is very good for people after a stroke. It helps their walking ability and their ability to prevent another stroke,” said Sandra Billinger, PhD, associate professor in physical therapy and rehabilitation science at KU Medical Center. “That’s not really a question anymore. It’s really how much intensity and for how long.”
Study volunteers must be between 40 and 80 years old, be six months to five years post-stroke and have some walking deficit.
“We’re very fortunate to have this grant and the infrastructure of our partners with The University of Kansas Health System to support this trial,” Billinger said. “Recovery trials are not as prevalent as some of the acute or prevention trials. This is one reason we’re excited to bring this to the Kansas City area.”
Sarah Eickmeyer, M.D., assistant professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the KU School of Medicine and Medical Director of the acute in-patient rehabilitation unit at The University of Kansas Health System, notes that stroke patients can continue to improve well after they have finished formal rehab. “While the most recovery gains tend to occur in the months immediately after a stroke, an increasing body of research shows rehabilitation at any stage post-stroke can improve function,” she said. “What most people value after having a stroke is their independence and the ability to not burden others, including their families. Exercise and participating in a study like this is a great way to improve that chance.”
For more information or to inquire about eligibility for the study, contact Jaimie Ward at 913-945-6630 or email reachlab@kumc.edu.
The video includes clips of Dr. Billinger discussing the study and Dr. Eickmeyer encouraging physical exercise after stroke to improve the daily lives of stroke patients.
