Physical activity levels in hospitalized individuals with stroke: a systematic review

Introduction: Stroke presents multiple associated consequences. Due to diminished functionality, post-stroke individuals often exhibit low engagement in moderate to vigorous physical activity (PA), not reaching recommended minimum levels. PA, apart from its additional benefits, is crucial as a non-pharmacological preventative strategy, providing neuroprotective effects against neurological diseases, mitigating their impact, delaying their progression, and potentially preventing recurrences. Objective: To review and analyse studies assessing PA levels in hospitalized individuals diagnosed with stroke, via either interval or continuous monitoring for a minimum duration of six hours during the most active periods of the day. Methodology: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, PEDro, and CENTRAL databases using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology. We included any types of studies that monitored PA levels in individuals aged over 18 years with stroke, who were hospitalized, and whose outcomes were not related to specific intervention effects. Results: After applying the inclusion criteria, 27 studies were included. Of these, 14 monitored PA via device-based methods, and 13 used behavioural mapping. Due to the methodological heterogeneity of the studies, it was not feasible to conduct a meta-analysis. Conclusion: Hospitalized post-stroke individuals spend large periods of time inactive and sedentary, potentially not meeting the established recommendations for PA levels in this condition.