[Evidence-based methods in motor rehabilitation after stroke]

Abstract

In this review, treatments for motor rehabilitation after stroke will be presented. In particular, randomised, controlled trials, meta-analyses and systematic reviews, mainly from the years 2009 - 2011, were taken into consideration. In summary, evidence is best for constraint-induced movement therapy and Botulinum toxin type A in patients with focal spasticity. Superiority has been demonstrated for the administration of drugs (serotonin re-uptake inhibitors and L-dopa), mirror therapy, the use of virtual reality, electromechanical devices to restore independent walking, and fitness and circuit training. Other therapies (bilateral arm training, treadmill therapy, robot-assisted arm therapy) did not show superiority. For sensory training and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation large clinical studies still need to be done.