To map and analyze how recent literature describes the tailoring exercise prescription process after stroke. Beyond this primary question, this scoping review aims to answer the following sub-questions: (1) What adaptations are made during the assessment process for exercise prescription?; (2) What assessment instruments/scales are used?; (3) Which variables resulting from the assessment are considered for the prescription of exercise programs?; (4) Which variables are manipulated in the prescription of exercise programs (type, mode, dose)?; and (5) How is the exercise program adjusted during its implementation?.
A scoping review was performed under the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines, based on the Joanna Briggs Institute method. The eligibility criteria were defined considering “stroke survivors” as Population, “individualized/tailored exercise” as Concept, and “open” as Context. A search of Pubmed, Web of Science and EBSCO databases was conducted using the primary search terms “Stroke” and “Exercise prescription”. The search included studies published between 2013 and May 2024, in English. The data from the selected studies were extracted and analyzed thoroughly by independent researchers.
Of the 2940 articles that resulted from the search, 12 articles met all inclusion criteria. Of these, 8 were experimental studies, 1 case study, and 3 pilot studies. Also, 8 of the 12 were on acute or sub-acute phases post-stroke. In these studies, individualized exercise was shown as applying assessment tools to determine the type of exercise to be performed, adjusted exercise progression, considering the participants' gains throughout the sessions, discussion of participants' personal goals and allowing participants to choose the most convenient times to go. Besides, it was also found that most of the studies offered more than one delivery method to their program (either group/community or one on one like at home training or with web assistance).
This scoping review detected a small number of studies regarding tailored exercise prescription in stroke survivors. It was not clear a recommended protocol to guide a tailored exercise prescription after stroke.
It is recommended that further research should be conducted to guide physiotherapists’ clinical decision for tailored exercise prescription post-stroke, as a rehabilitation approach.
Therapeutic exercise
Individualized training
