Current issues and considerations about the central role of rehabilitation therapies in the functional recovery of neurological impairments after stroke in adults

Well-organized acute and intermediate rehabilitation after stroke can provide patients with the best functional results. Several studies led to major changes in recommendations concerning remobilization therapies following stroke. Controlled studies including early mobilization in stands and training with partial body weight support on treadmills and "gait training" systems showed superior results compared to traditional treatment strategies. In case of spasticity and equinovarus and stiff knee pattern following stroke, botulinum neurotoxin A injections and/or casting enable the achievement of adequate alignment of the ankle for stance phase and allow the improvement of joint mobility during swing phase when restricted.