Feasibility of Early Physical Therapy Program In-Hospital Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Clinical practice guidelines for patients with stroke recommend early stroke rehabilitation at acute stroke unit care. The purpose of the study is to determine the feasibility of the application of feedback breathing device for respiratory training during the acute period in patients with ischemic cerebral stroke and appropriate program of physical therapy.MATERIAL AND METHODS: Seven patients in acute period – not later than 48 hours after the accident with light to moderate stroke severity under the NIHSS scale. The applied study methods are the following: functional respiratory evaluation, inspiratory capacity with incentive spirometer device, assessing diaphragmatic movement by ultrasonography.RESULTS: Better results in Forced Vital Capacity, Peak Expiratory Flow, inspiratory capacity and ultrasonography have been observed.CONCLUSION: An early targeted impact on respiratory disorders in patients with ischemic cerebral stroke is applicable. To determine the clinical significance larger studies are needed