Project R-11128

The effect of an intensive exercise program on activity restrictions in the acute stage of stroke in Benin. (Research)

Objective: to develop an intensive exercise programme for the acute stage of stroke in Benin and to evaluate its effects on impairments, activity limitations and restrictions in participation. Methodology: This doctoral research project involves four studies: (1) the first study is a systematic review and meta-analysis on the methodology and effects of exercise in the first two weeks after stroke. It will be limited to RCTs published in the English or French language without time limitations. (2) the second study is a longitudinal study on the current rehabilitation practice in Benin and natural recovery following a stroke. Participants in the study will be recruited in 5 rehabilitation centers. In addition to patients' assessment, the protocol will include a survey of practices by clinicians. (3) the third study will be a pilot study on the feasibility and effectiveness of an intensive rehabilitation exercise programme at the acute stage of stroke in Benin. The experimental intervention will consist in two 60-minute intensive rehabilitation sessions per day, 5 days per week during 4 weeks (40 hours in total). (4) the last study will be a longitudinal single-blind, randomized, controlled trial on the effectiveness of an intensive exercise programme at the acute phase of stroke on clinical outcome and changes in blood BDNF. The experimental intervention will be designed based on the outcomes of the pilot study and the literature review while the control intervention will be a conventional physiotherapy.

01 January 2021 - 31 December 2024