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Search Results (1,729)

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17 pages, 1235 KB  
Review
From Functional Mapping to Functional Recovery: The Emerging Role of Neuronavigated rTMS in Neurorehabilitation
by Marcin Karol Setlak, Bartłomiej Błaszczyk, Krzysztof Suszyński, Sylwia Szostek-Rogula, Maciej Wojtacha and Adam Rudnik
Brain Sci. 2026, 16(7), 721; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16070721 (registering DOI) - 6 Jul 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been increasingly investigated as an adjunctive intervention in neurorehabilitation, particularly for motor recovery after stroke. However, conventional rTMS protocols remain limited by variability in target localization, inter-individual anatomical differences, lesion-related network reorganization, and limited reproducibility across [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been increasingly investigated as an adjunctive intervention in neurorehabilitation, particularly for motor recovery after stroke. However, conventional rTMS protocols remain limited by variability in target localization, inter-individual anatomical differences, lesion-related network reorganization, and limited reproducibility across treatment sessions. Neuronavigated repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (nrTMS) integrates structural neuroimaging with real-time coil tracking, enabling more precise and reproducible stimulation of patient-specific cortical targets. This approach may be especially relevant in patients with focal brain lesions, postoperative anatomical distortion, or functionally reorganized networks. Methods: This narrative review summarizes the biological rationale, current clinical evidence, practical workflow, and limitations of nrTMS in neurorehabilitation, with particular attention to the distinction between conventional rTMS and neuronavigated protocols. Results: The strongest evidence for rTMS-based rehabilitation remains in post-stroke motor recovery, although most studies have used non-navigated protocols. In contrast, postoperative neuro-oncological rehabilitation represents a clinically relevant but still investigational context for nrTMS, as preoperative functional mapping, postoperative deficits, and early rehabilitation can be integrated within a patient-specific therapeutic pathway. Early studies suggest feasibility when stimulation is combined with structured physiotherapy; however, the available evidence is based on small and heterogeneous cohorts, and clinically meaningful superiority over conventional rTMS or standard rehabilitation has not yet been established. Data in traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, ataxias, and neurodegenerative disorders are still preliminary and heterogeneous. Conclusions: Neuronavigation should not be interpreted as an independent therapeutic breakthrough, but rather as a precision-enhancing component of rTMS-based rehabilitation. Its main potential value lies in improving targeting accuracy, session-to-session reproducibility, and integration with individualized neuroimaging and rehabilitation goals. Accordingly, nrTMS should currently be considered a precision-enhancing and hypothesis-generating framework rather than an established rehabilitation standard. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Aspects of Neurorehabilitation)
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26 pages, 1059 KB  
Systematic Review
Non-Invasive Assessment of Hypertonic Muscle Properties After Botulinum Toxin Neuromodulation in Post-Stroke Patients: A Systematic Literature Review of Recent Evidence (2023–2025) on Mobility and Balance
by Sebastian Giuvara, Gelu Onose, Constantin Munteanu, Cristina Popescu, Aura Spinu, Andrada Mirea and Aurelian Anghelescu
Life 2026, 16(7), 1120; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16071120 (registering DOI) - 5 Jul 2026
Abstract
Background: Post-stroke spasticity is a frequent and disabling consequence of stroke, including when affecting the lower limbs, where it may impair stance, gait, balance, postural control, functional independence and quality of life. Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) is widely used as a focal [...] Read more.
Background: Post-stroke spasticity is a frequent and disabling consequence of stroke, including when affecting the lower limbs, where it may impair stance, gait, balance, postural control, functional independence and quality of life. Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) is widely used as a focal neuromodulatory treatment for post-stroke spasticity. However, the relationship between BoNT-A-induced reduction in muscle hypertonia, objective changes in spastic muscle’s biomechanical properties, and functional outcomes such as mobility and balance remains insufficiently clarified. This systematic review aimed to synthesize recent evidence regarding the non-invasive assessment of spastic muscle properties following BoNT-A administration in post-stroke patients, with emphasis on mobility and balance outcomes. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The search was performed in international electronic databases and included studies published between 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2025. The search strategy used specific keywords and keyword combinations/syntaxes, contextually, related to the topic of interest. Results: A total of 32 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final data analysis and synthesis, comprising 13 primary clinical studies—6 randomized or controlled interventional studies and 7 observational studies—together with 12 reviews or evidence syntheses, 3 technical or clinical framework papers, and 4 survey, epidemiological, health-services or health-economic studies. Overall, the included articles addressed BoNT-A treatment in post-stroke spasticity, with partial focus on muscle properties, gait, mobility, and functional outcomes. However, only a limited number of studies investigated objective non-invasive assessment methods, and few directly related muscle-property changes in balance and mobility outcomes. Formal risk-of-bias assessment and quantitative synthesis were not performed because of the substantial heterogeneity of the included evidence, with only two studies being potentially suitable for pooling and these addressing different muscle groups, interventions, and outcome domains. Discussion and Conclusions: The reviewed literature confirms the clinical relevance of BoNT-A in the management of post-stroke spasticity. However, most studies assess treatment effects mainly through clinical scales, while objective evaluation of muscle stiffness, elasticity, viscoelastic properties, and their relationship with mobility and balance remains limited. Although some studies address gait, functional recovery, or muscle-related changes, the combined use of BoNT-A treatment, myotonometric assessment, and proprioceptive–stabilometric evaluation is largely absent. Therefore, current evidence highlights an important research gap and supports the need for future longitudinal studies integrating non-invasive biomechanical and balance assessment tools to better monitor treatment response and guide individualized neurorehabilitation in post-stroke patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Research)
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14 pages, 701 KB  
Article
Effects of Non-Suspended Robot-Assisted Ambulatory Training on Stroke Patients
by Wen-Fang Lei and Shin-Da Lee
Healthcare 2026, 14(13), 1990; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14131990 - 3 Jul 2026
Viewed by 100
Abstract
Background: The study aimed to investigate the effects of non-suspended robot-assisted ambulatory training with approximately 80–100% weight-bearing during the stance phase on one leg and 0% weight-bearing support during the swing phase on the other leg on hemiplegic stroke patients who were unable [...] Read more.
Background: The study aimed to investigate the effects of non-suspended robot-assisted ambulatory training with approximately 80–100% weight-bearing during the stance phase on one leg and 0% weight-bearing support during the swing phase on the other leg on hemiplegic stroke patients who were unable to ambulate at baseline. Traditional robot-assisted gait training commonly provided substantial body-weight support (approximately 0–20% weight-bearing during the stance phase on one leg), whereas the present system enables near-normal weight-bearing during gait training. Methods: Pre- and post-assessments of Brunnstrom stage, standing balance, and the Barthel Index of Activities of Daily Living (ADL) were performed in sixty hemiplegic stroke patients (30 right-sided and 30 left-sided hemiplegia) with stroke onset less than 6 months and without ambulatory ability. A retrospective controlled study was performed using a non-suspended robot-assisted ambulatory training machine (RAATM) that provides approximately 80–100% weight-bearing during the stance phase on one leg for more than 150 min a month (>4500 guided steps), combined with a 4-week conventional rehabilitation program (RAATM group, n = 30). Outcomes were compared with those of an age-, affected side-, and baseline walking-ability-matched control group (control group, n = 30) that received only a 4-week conventional rehabilitation program. Results. The average accumulated intervention duration in the RAATM group was 246 ± 74 min, which received intervention of RAATM with 80–100% weight-bearing during the stance phase on one leg and 0% weight-bearing during the swing phase on the other leg. The pre-to-post changes in the Brunnstrom stage of the lower extremities, static standing balance score, dynamic standing balance score, mobility on level surfaces, stairs, and total Barthel Index score were significantly higher in the RAATM group than in the control group. Conclusions. Functions of lower extremities, standing balance, and mobility ability can be improved after intervention of non-suspended RAATM within a month. Non-suspended robot-assisted ambulatory training appeared to be an effective therapeutic approach for hemiplegic stroke patients pre-assessed without ambulatory ability. Full article
19 pages, 1884 KB  
Systematic Review
Effects of Gait Biofeedback Training on Spatiotemporal Gait Parameters in Stroke Survivors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
by Kaixiong Dai, Yuqiong Yang and Yujie Yang
Brain Sci. 2026, 16(7), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16070717 - 3 Jul 2026
Viewed by 87
Abstract
Background: Stroke represents a major contributor to long-term disability and is commonly associated with impaired gait, balance, and mobility, which reduce independence and increase fall risk. Gait biofeedback training provides real-time performance-related feedback and may facilitate motor relearning. This study aimed to synthesize [...] Read more.
Background: Stroke represents a major contributor to long-term disability and is commonly associated with impaired gait, balance, and mobility, which reduce independence and increase fall risk. Gait biofeedback training provides real-time performance-related feedback and may facilitate motor relearning. This study aimed to synthesize the available evidence of gait biofeedback training on spatiotemporal gait parameters in stroke survivors. Methods: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched up to 7 April 2026. RCTs involving stroke survivors with gait impairment that compared gait biofeedback training with non-biofeedback rehabilitation and reported spatiotemporal gait outcomes were included. Risk of bias and certainty of evidence were assessed using RoB-1 and GRADE, respectively. Meta-analyses were conducted using mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 and τ2, and 95% prediction intervals (PI) were calculated where possible. Results: 10 RCTs involving 304 participants were included. Compared with control interventions, gait biofeedback training may improve gait velocity (MD = 9.78 cm/s, 95% CI 6.06 to 13.50, p < 0.001, 95% PI 2.14 to 17.41) and step length (MD = 5.88 cm, 95% CI 1.14 to 10.61, p = 0.01, 95% PI −10.18 to 21.94). However, the certainty of evidence was stronger for gait velocity than for step length. A significant effect on cadence was observed in the primary analysis, but this finding was unstable in the sensitivity analysis. No significant pooled effects were found for stride length or stance time. The wide PI for step length, stride length, and stance time indicates that the expected effects may vary across future clinical settings. Conclusions: Gait biofeedback training may improve gait velocity after stroke. Evidence for step length improvement is more tentative, while evidence for cadence, stride length, and stance time remains insufficient or unstable. Additional well-designed high-quality RCTs are needed to confirm these findings and determine optimal feedback modes and training protocols. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420261354683). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neurorehabilitation)
23 pages, 981 KB  
Review
From Optical to AI-Driven Markerless Motion Capture in Motor Learning and Rehabilitation
by Panagiotis Georganakis, Konstantinos Spinthiropoulos, Konstantinos Panitsidis, Dimitrios Parris and Vasiliki Gerodimou
Bioengineering 2026, 13(7), 776; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering13070776 - 3 Jul 2026
Viewed by 238
Abstract
Traditional biomechanical analysis is constrained by high capital costs and the physical limitations imposed by markers, posing significant barriers to clinical adoption. This review evaluates the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI)-based markerless motion capture (MMC) as a transformative approach for democratizing movement science [...] Read more.
Traditional biomechanical analysis is constrained by high capital costs and the physical limitations imposed by markers, posing significant barriers to clinical adoption. This review evaluates the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI)-based markerless motion capture (MMC) as a transformative approach for democratizing movement science in clinical rehabilitation. The discussion outlines the progression from legacy geometric visual hulls to advanced deep learning architectures, with particular focus on YOLO-based two-dimensional detection and spatio-temporal transformer models for three-dimensional pose estimation. Evidence indicates that multi-camera MMC frameworks achieve research-grade positional accuracy (16–34 mm Mean Per-Joint Position Error—MPJPE), while monocular systems provide sufficient sensitivity (82–88%) for longitudinal monitoring of geriatric fall risk and stroke recovery. While challenges persist in achieving precise axial rotation measurement, integrating real-time signal refinement enables objective and ecologically valid assessments in community-based healthcare settings. This technological advancement redefines movement analysis, shifting it from a laboratory-bound procedure to a widely accessible and interoperable diagnostic tool. Full article
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25 pages, 7179 KB  
Review
Global Trends in Virtual Reality Research on Motor Rehabilitation from 2005 to 2025: A Bibliometric Analysis
by Yarong Kong, Ziyi Shu and Yoon-soo Han
Healthcare 2026, 14(13), 1976; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14131976 (registering DOI) - 2 Jul 2026
Viewed by 93
Abstract
Background: Virtual reality (VR) has been increasingly used in motor rehabilitation over the past two decades, but the overall research landscape of this field has not been fully mapped from a bibliometric perspective. Objective: This study aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis to [...] Read more.
Background: Virtual reality (VR) has been increasingly used in motor rehabilitation over the past two decades, but the overall research landscape of this field has not been fully mapped from a bibliometric perspective. Objective: This study aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis to determine the development of research on VR for motor rehabilitation, focusing on its knowledge structure, major research topics, and temporal changes in the field. Methods: A topic-based search combining VR- and motor rehabilitation-related terms was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection for the period from 2005 to 2025, yielding 1232 publications. VOSviewer, CiteSpace, R, and Scimago Graphica were used to analyze publication trends, country and institutional contributions, author collaboration, journal and reference co-citation, keyword co-occurrence, citation bursts, and thematic evolution. Results: Publications increased in three stages: slow exploration, steady growth, and rapid expansion. The United States, Italy, China, and Canada were the leading contributors, with McGill University as the most productive institution. Research hotspots included gait and neurological rehabilitation, post-stroke upper-limb recovery, robotics- and neuroscience-integrated rehabilitation, and the rise of immersive VR technology. Conclusions: This study provides a bibliometric overview of research progress in the application of virtual reality technology to motor rehabilitation, offering systematic insights into the field’s knowledge structure, core research themes, evolutionary trajectory, and future research directions. Full article
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32 pages, 3309 KB  
Review
Neurogenic Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions Across Neurological Disorders: Mechanisms, Phenotypes, and Precision Rehabilitation Pathways—A Narrative Review
by Desirèe Latella, Chiara Scorza, Mirjam Bonanno, Andrea Calderone, Angelo Quartarone, Fabrizio Quattrini and Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(13), 5140; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15135140 - 1 Jul 2026
Viewed by 217
Abstract
Background: Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is frequent in neurological disorders, but it is often approached as a secondary urological or gynecological problem rather than a functional rehabilitation target. Neurological disease can disturb cortical, pontine, spinal, sacral, autonomic, somatic, and sensory pathways that regulate [...] Read more.
Background: Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is frequent in neurological disorders, but it is often approached as a secondary urological or gynecological problem rather than a functional rehabilitation target. Neurological disease can disturb cortical, pontine, spinal, sacral, autonomic, somatic, and sensory pathways that regulate bladder storage, voiding, bowel evacuation, sexual function, and pelvic pain modulation. Methods: This narrative review synthesized biomedical evidence identified through PubMed searches from database inception to 2 May 2026. Search concepts included neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction, urinary and bowel dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, pelvic pain, pelvic floor rehabilitation, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, neuromodulation, telerehabilitation, robotics, and major neurological disorders. The review was oriented according to the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles (SANRA) and was not designed as a systematic review or meta-analysis. Results: Evidence from multiple sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, spinal cord injury, and fibromyalgia or nociplastic pain syndromes supports a phenotype-based framework in which pelvic floor muscle training, bladder and bowel training, biofeedback, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, posterior tibial nerve stimulation, sacral neuromodulation, telerehabilitation, robotics, and multidisciplinary care are considered complementary rather than interchangeable strategies. Conclusions: PFD in neurological disorders may be more appropriately conceptualized as a multidimensional neurorehabilitation target. Effective care depends on disease-informed phenotyping, individualized rehabilitation goals, attention to cognition and adherence, and standardized outcome measurement. Future studies should test phenotype-specific pathways that integrate bladder, bowel, sexual, pain, participation, safety, and caregiver outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Challenges of Pelvic Floor Disorders Management)
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24 pages, 3919 KB  
Article
Design, Simulation and Optimization of a Novel Knee-Rehabilitation Mechanism with Passive-Self-Alignment Segmented Redundant Joints for Stroke Patients
by Meng Gao, Hujiang Wang, Yaqi Wang, Da Jiang, Wen Zhang, Wentao Feng and Fuqun Zhao
Electronics 2026, 15(13), 2878; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15132878 - 1 Jul 2026
Viewed by 98
Abstract
With the increasing number of stroke patients, there is a growing demand for lower-limb rehabilitation exoskeletons. While current mechanisms are preferred for their light weight and dexterous design in limited environments, the alignment of the structures and motion are still not matched perfectly [...] Read more.
With the increasing number of stroke patients, there is a growing demand for lower-limb rehabilitation exoskeletons. While current mechanisms are preferred for their light weight and dexterous design in limited environments, the alignment of the structures and motion are still not matched perfectly to human movements. This study develops a novel structure and configuration optimization method for knee part rehabilitation with special passive self-alignment modules. The driving segment is mechanically coupled to the patients’ lower limb. All components are designed with high rigidity and fully constrained to ensure smooth and continuous motion. Then, the kinematics are systematically derived to establish the foundation for the control system. Next, the application of the particle swarm optimization algorithm determines the optimal parameters for each revolute joint during the bending motion, and reduces the non-ideal S-shaped motion deformation curve caused by the offset of the joint rotation center and the load at the end effector successfully. The final results demonstrate that the optimized SRE achieves 97.5% motion accuracy under large-angle knee movement. This work presents simulation-only validation, and clinical testing remains future work. The proposed mechanism provides a promising solution for post-stroke rehabilitation, and is also applicable to geriatric lower-limb weakness and orthopedic postoperative recovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Control for Next-Generation Robotics)
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11 pages, 508 KB  
Article
Association Between Hyponatremia and Rehabilitation Outcomes After Stroke: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study
by Donghyun Shin, Jongkyu Kim, Songi Han, Sujeong Choi and Eun Sang Yoon
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(13), 5087; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15135087 - 30 Jun 2026
Viewed by 92
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study evaluated the association of hyponatremia with functional outcomes and hospital stay length in patients undergoing acute stroke rehabilitation. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients undergoing acute stroke rehabilitation. Hyponatremia was identified based on serum sodium levels during hospitalization. After 1:1 propensity [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study evaluated the association of hyponatremia with functional outcomes and hospital stay length in patients undergoing acute stroke rehabilitation. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients undergoing acute stroke rehabilitation. Hyponatremia was identified based on serum sodium levels during hospitalization. After 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) for age and sex, functional outcomes (Functional Ambulatory Category [FAC], Korean version of the Modified Barthel Index [K-MBI]) and hospital stay were compared between the two groups. Multivariable logistic regression, adjusted for initial NIHSS and baseline FAC/K-MBI scores, was performed to evaluate the independent association of hyponatremia. Results: A total of 141 patients with stroke were analyzed. After 1:1 PSM, 50 patients were included in each group. After matching, the hyponatremia group had higher baseline NIHSS and poorer functional status than the non-hyponatremia group. The hyponatremia group also had significantly longer hospital stays (52.70 ± 24.31 vs. 40.92 ± 17.48 days; p = 0.007) and lower rates of independent ambulation (16% vs. 44%; p = 0.002) and good functional outcomes (22% vs. 56%; p < 0.001). After adjusting for baseline NIHSS and functional status, hyponatremia remained independently associated with lower likelihoods of achieving independent ambulation (adjusted OR [aOR], 0.249; 95% CI, 0.064–0.966; p = 0.044) and good functional outcomes (aOR, 0.283; 95% CI, 0.086–0.929; p = 0.037). Conclusions: Hyponatremia was associated with a lower likelihood of achieving independent ambulation and good functional outcomes after rehabilitation, and with a longer hospital stay in patients with acute stroke. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rehabilitation and Management of Stroke)
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16 pages, 975 KB  
Article
Corticomuscular Coherence in Post-Stroke Motor Function and Recovery
by Rachana Gangwani, Jasper I. Mark, Sabrina Zadrozny and Jessica M. Cassidy
Brain Sci. 2026, 16(7), 689; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16070689 - 30 Jun 2026
Viewed by 93
Abstract
Background: Assessing cortical and muscle activity simultaneously during task performance may inform motor function post-stroke. This study evaluated brain–muscle functional connectivity (corticomuscular coherence, CMC) in early stroke recovery. Methods: Individuals with stroke in an inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) completed motor assessments and simultaneous [...] Read more.
Background: Assessing cortical and muscle activity simultaneously during task performance may inform motor function post-stroke. This study evaluated brain–muscle functional connectivity (corticomuscular coherence, CMC) in early stroke recovery. Methods: Individuals with stroke in an inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) completed motor assessments and simultaneous electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) recordings during a grip task at IRF admission and discharge. Beta (20–30 Hz) CMC was measured between EEG electrodes overlying the primary motor cortex (M1) and supplementary motor area (SMA) and EMG leads overlying the first dorsal interosseous (FDI). Neurotypical controls completed identical EEG/EMG recordings. Correlational analyses were performed to ascertain CMC and motor assessment associations. CMC differences by Group (Stroke vs. Controls), Time (Admission vs. Discharge), and Extremity (Affected/Dominant vs. Less Affected/Non-Dominant) were estimated using mixed-effects linear models. Results: Thirty individuals with stroke (14 females, mean age 67.0 ± 9.8 years, 10.4 ± 3.5 days post-stroke) and 17 controls (8 females, mean age 75.3 ± 13 years) participated. Individuals with stroke exhibited reduced beta CMC between SMA and affected FDI (F(1,36.1) = 5.73, p = 0.02, Cohen’s f = 0.40) compared to controls, with lower CMC involving the affected vs. less affected extremity (F(1,73.0) = 5.72, p = 0.01, Cohen’s f = 0.28). Greater beta SMA–FDI CMC at admission related to poorer motor recovery (ρ = −0.59, p = 0.01). Group and Extremity CMC differences were not observed over time, nor were there changes in affected extremity CMC from admission to discharge. Conclusions: Beta SMA–FDI CMC is a marker of neural injury, exhibiting extremity-specific differences early post-stroke. While beta SMA–FDI CMC correlated with motor recovery, the absence of change over time during hospitalization necessitates longitudinal assessments to clarify its trajectory alongside recovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Study in Stroke and Stroke Rehabilitation)
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15 pages, 1955 KB  
Review
Early Rehabilitation in Children After Ischemic Stroke—Importance and Effects: A Scoping Review
by Kamila Perliceusz, Alicja Kowalczyk, Zbigniew Dobrzański and Wojciech Witkiewicz
Children 2026, 13(7), 866; https://doi.org/10.3390/children13070866 - 29 Jun 2026
Viewed by 479
Abstract
Background: Early rehabilitation after pediatric ischemic stroke may support neuroplasticity and improve long-term functional outcomes. However, rehabilitation practices remain heterogeneous, and evidence-based recommendations regarding the optimal timing and intensity of intervention are limited. Objectives: This scoping review aimed to evaluate the available evidence [...] Read more.
Background: Early rehabilitation after pediatric ischemic stroke may support neuroplasticity and improve long-term functional outcomes. However, rehabilitation practices remain heterogeneous, and evidence-based recommendations regarding the optimal timing and intensity of intervention are limited. Objectives: This scoping review aimed to evaluate the available evidence regarding early rehabilitation after pediatric ischemic stroke, identify prognostic factors associated with functional recovery, summarize current therapeutic approaches, and highlight gaps in the existing literature. Eligibility Criteria: Eligible studies included children and adolescents aged 0–18 years diagnosed with ischemic stroke and receiving rehabilitation or therapeutic intervention. Studies addressing the timing, intensity, and effects of physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, neuropsychological intervention, neuromodulation, or multidisciplinary rehabilitation were considered for inclusion. Sources of Evidence: A structured literature search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2000 and January 2025. Charting Methods: Data were extracted using a standardized charting form and synthesized narratively because of substantial heterogeneity in study design, populations, interventions, and outcome measures. Results: Twenty-one sources met the inclusion criteria. Direct evidence specifically addressing early rehabilitation after pediatric ischemic stroke was limited and consisted primarily of observational studies. A substantial proportion of the available evidence was indirect, originating from studies of perinatal stroke, unilateral brain injury, cerebral palsy, and related pediatric neurorehabilitation populations, as well as clinical guidelines and expert consensus documents. The available evidence suggests potential benefits across motor, cognitive, communication, and functional domains, although the strength and directness of evidence varied substantially. Several studies identified the early post-stroke period as a potentially important window for neuroplasticity, while family involvement, individualized treatment planning, and interdisciplinary care were consistently highlighted as important components of rehabilitation. Evidence supporting neuromodulation techniques remained preliminary and was largely limited to selected pediatric populations. Conclusions: The available evidence, although heterogeneous and largely indirect, suggests that early coordinated and multidisciplinary rehabilitation may be beneficial in pediatric ischemic stroke care. However, the current evidence base remains limited, and high-quality prospective studies are needed to establish standardized rehabilitation protocols and determine the optimal timing and intensity of therapeutic interventions. Full article
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16 pages, 363 KB  
Article
Chronic Corticosteroid Use Is Associated with Higher Perioperative Morbidity After Elective Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty
by Assil Mahamid, Hamza Murad, Miri Elgabsi, Neev Tchernin, Aia Bowirrat, Feras Qawasmi, Dror Robinson, Mohammad Shehadeh, Mustafa Yassin and Muhammad Khatib
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(13), 5057; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15135057 - 29 Jun 2026
Viewed by 146
Abstract
Background: Chronic corticosteroids are commonly prescribed for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, yet their impact on perioperative outcomes following elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains incompletely defined. This study evaluated the association between chronic corticosteroid use and postoperative complications and hospital outcomes after elective [...] Read more.
Background: Chronic corticosteroids are commonly prescribed for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, yet their impact on perioperative outcomes following elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains incompletely defined. This study evaluated the association between chronic corticosteroid use and postoperative complications and hospital outcomes after elective primary THA. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study using the National Inpatient Sample (2016–2021). Adult patients undergoing elective primary THA were identified using ICD-10-PCS codes. Chronic corticosteroid use was defined by ICD-10-CM code Z79.52. The primary outcome was any postoperative complication, including venous thromboembolism (VTE), major bleeding, acute kidney injury, myocardial infarction, stroke, or sepsis. Secondary outcomes included prolonged length of stay, high hospital charges, discharge to rehabilitation, and in-hospital mortality. Multivariable weighted logistic regression and 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was applied. Results: The weighted cohort represented approximately 600,000 hospitalizations, of which 0.91% involved chronic steroid use. Steroid users had a higher burden of comorbidities. After adjustment, chronic corticosteroid use was independently associated with increased odds of any postoperative complication (OR 1.32), major bleeding (OR 1.46), prolonged hospitalization (OR 1.26), discharge to rehabilitation (OR 1.06), and in-hospital mortality (OR 2.53). In the matched cohort (1079 pairs), steroid use remained significantly associated with overall complications (OR 1.84) and acute kidney injury (OR 2.10). Conclusions: Although uncommon, chronic corticosteroid use is associated with a clinically meaningful increase in perioperative morbidity after elective THA. These findings highlight chronic corticosteroid use as a marker of increased perioperative risk that warrants greater clinical recognition, and they provide hypothesis-generating evidence to inform future studies of perioperative management in this population. Full article
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18 pages, 850 KB  
Article
Ankle Robotics Induces Ongoing Locomotor Plasticity with Delayed, Sustained Multi-Segmental Gait Improvements 17 Months After Training in Chronic Stroke
by Anindo Roy, Kelly Westlake, Charlene Hafer-Macko, Bradley Hennessie and Richard Macko
Medicina 2026, 62(7), 1250; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62071250 - 29 Jun 2026
Viewed by 170
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Robotics training improves gait after stroke, but no prior studies have investigated whether emerging long-term gait biomechanics improvements occur after training. We assessed the temporal profile of pre-post gait biomechanics changes after 9 weeks of dorsiflexion specific adaptive control [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Robotics training improves gait after stroke, but no prior studies have investigated whether emerging long-term gait biomechanics improvements occur after training. We assessed the temporal profile of pre-post gait biomechanics changes after 9 weeks of dorsiflexion specific adaptive control ankle robot (AMBLE™) training, and at 9 weeks post-training and 17 months later in three persons with chronic stroke to probe for ongoing locomotor plasticity versus post-training disuse decay. Materials and Methods: Three densely hemiparetic subjects (mean ± SD), age 62 ± 7 years., stroke latency 8 ± 4 years, available for repeat testing from an original N = 24 robotics training cohort study, underwent three-dimensional gait analyses pre-post 9 weeks of AMBLE training, and then 9 weeks and 17 months after all robotics training ended. Results: We found that only 47% of total improvements in heel-first strikes and 31% increased paretic step length occurred pre-post training. Unexpectedly, all other biomechanical improvements manifested progressively 17 months after training ended, including ankle peak swing angle (∆ = 7°), dorsiflexion angular velocity (∆ = 23°/s), peak knee flexion (∆ = 11.1°) and hip flexion (∆ = 6°). Robotics prescription progressions in level of assistance and dorsiflexion target angle strongly correlated to gait biomechanical outcomes at 17 months, including improved heel-first strikes and peak dorsiflexion swing angle in this small sample. Conclusions: These findings show that initial improvements in foot–ankle function across training are followed by emergent biomechanical improvements in ankle, knee and hip kinematics across 17 months post-training, with delayed outcomes related to robotics prescription progression. The temporal profile of biomechanical adaptations might suggest delayed, progressive reduction in pathological multi-joint synergies of the hemiparetic leg. However, findings are exploratory and cannot establish causality, treatment efficacy or broad generalizability. Future research is needed to determine whether ankle robotics training can catalyze improvements in long-term gait biomechanical safety and efficiency in the chronic disease management of stroke. Full article
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21 pages, 5600 KB  
Systematic Review
High-Intensity Interval Training on Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Cognitive Function, and Functional Capacity in Adults with Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Javier Cano-Sánchez, Raquel Fábrega-Cuadros, Yulieth Rivas-Campo, Camila Perafan-Grajales, María del Carmen Carcelén-Fraile and Juan Miguel Muñoz-Perete
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(13), 4977; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15134977 - 26 Jun 2026
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Abstract
Background/Objectives: Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide and is frequently associated with reduced cardiorespiratory fitness, impaired functional capacity, and cognitive decline. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has emerged as a promising rehabilitation strategy; however, its effects across multiple domains remain unclear. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide and is frequently associated with reduced cardiorespiratory fitness, impaired functional capacity, and cognitive decline. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has emerged as a promising rehabilitation strategy; however, its effects across multiple domains remain unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of HIIT on cardiorespiratory fitness, cognitive function, and functional capacity in adults with stroke. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science up to April 2026. Randomized controlled trials involving HIIT interventions in adults with stroke were included. Outcomes of interest were cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2peak), functional capacity (gait speed, walking distance, mobility, and balance), and cognitive function. Pooled effect sizes were calculated using a random-effects model. Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale, and risk of bias was evaluated with the Cochrane RoB-2 tool. Results: In total, 17 studies (n = 809 participants) were included, with 12 contributing to the meta-analysis. HIIT significantly improved cardiorespiratory fitness (SMD = −0.849; p = 0.005), gait speed (SMD = 0.693; p = 0.014), walking distance (SMD = 0.604; p < 0.001), functional mobility (SMD = −0.711; p = 0.027), balance (SMD = 2.447; p = 0.002), and cognitive function (SMD = 1.741; p < 0.001). However, substantial heterogeneity was observed across most outcomes. Conclusions: HIIT appears to be an effective intervention for improving cardiorespiratory fitness, functional capacity, and cognitive performance in individuals with stroke. Nevertheless, the variability across studies suggests that its effectiveness is context-dependent. Further research is needed to standardize protocols and determine optimal implementation strategies. Full article
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11 pages, 611 KB  
Article
Comparison of Trunk and Lower Limb Muscle Activation Between Non-Motorized Treadmill and Flat Ground Walking at Varying Intensities in Patients with Stroke
by Minkwon Cho, Taewoong Jeong and Yijung Chung
Bioengineering 2026, 13(7), 735; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering13070735 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2026
Viewed by 246
Abstract
Although considerable research has investigated non-motorized treadmills (NMTs), most studies have focused on healthy adults or athletes. This study aimed to compare trunk and lower limb muscle activation during walking on an NMT and flat ground (FG) at different exercise intensities in patients [...] Read more.
Although considerable research has investigated non-motorized treadmills (NMTs), most studies have focused on healthy adults or athletes. This study aimed to compare trunk and lower limb muscle activation during walking on an NMT and flat ground (FG) at different exercise intensities in patients with stroke. Eighteen patients with stroke participated in this within-subject, repeated-measures experimental study conducted at a single hospital. Participants performed walking trials under six randomized conditions, comprising both NMT and FG walking at intensities of 20%, 40%, and 60% of heart rate reserve (HRR). Muscle activation of the affected-side erector spinae, internal oblique, gluteus medius, gluteus maximus, vastus medialis oblique, biceps femoris, and lateral gastrocnemius was assessed. Walking on the NMT resulted in significantly greater overall muscle activation than walking on FG (p < 0.05). In addition, significant differences in trunk and lower limb muscle activation were observed across HRR levels during both NMT and FG walking (p < 0.05), indicating that exercise intensity influenced neuromuscular responses. These findings suggest that NMT walking, particularly at higher intensities, acutely increases neuromuscular demands, providing preliminary evidence for its potential application as a demanding walking condition for stroke rehabilitation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electromyography Techniques for Motion Analysis)
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