Rehabilitation content and clinical stroke subtype: a small observational study

Abstract

Purpose. The Oxford classification categorises stroke according to clinical features. Differences in terms of mortality, institutionalisation, recurrence and achievement of mobility milestones have been demonstrated across clinical subtypes. This study aimed to describe differences in content of occupational therapy and physiotherapy activities, according to clinical stroke subtype.

Method. This retrospective study forms part of a larger research project (n = 419). Ten patients from each of five clinical subtypes were randomly selected and therapy content was recoded from the medical notes using a coding tool.

Results. The content of therapy sessions varied across subtypes, for both occupational therapy and physiotherapy sessions. Kruskal–Wallis analysis showed significant difference between subtypes for passive movements and transfers (p < 0.05) and standing balance, walking and stairs (p < 0.01). Similarly, significant differences between subtypes were seen in personal activities of daily living and the assessment or treatment of mood/cognitive problems (p < 0.05).

Conclusions. The results show differences in the content of occupational and physiotherapy sessions across clinical stroke subtypes. Findings from this study could be used to help workforce planning and inform future studies with a larger sample.

Keywords:

• Stroke subtype
• rehabilitation
• physiotherapy
• occupational therapy