The value of physiotherapy following stroke

Physiotherapy (or physical therapy) is defined as the treatment of disease by physical exercise, massage, or other manipulative body-based methods — not drugs. Wikipedia has a good overview.

Cochrane has judged the evidence.

After reviewing 21 studies they concluded, “There is evidence that physiotherapy intervention, using a mix of components from different approaches, is significantly more effective than no treatment or placebo control in the recovery of functional independence following stroke.”

In addition, when used to promote recovery of lower limb function or postural control — as measured by improved leg strength, balance, walking speed, or the ability to perform everyday tasks — no single approach to physiotherapy was superior to any other method.

5/9/07 19:39 JR