Functional Problems after Acute Stroke And The Recovery Status After 3 Months - A Cross Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Introduction: Stroke survivors experience limitations in Basic and Instrumental activities of Daily living (ADLs), which have a significant impact. Over 50 % have motor problems but are not seeking physiotherapy. The independence of individuals is impacted by limiting in activities like eating, walking, dressing, etcetera. Commonly used Functional Outcome measures have not been validated in India. So, we have taken the Indian Stroke Scale (ISS) (Gujarati Version) as an outcome measure. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out in Anand city of Gujarat state, including 27 patients diagnosed with stroke. The initial assessment and pre-data (ISS) were taken within 7 days of incident of stroke and the post- data was taken after 3 months. Results: We have found that 52 % of the patients have taken physiotherapy after getting discharge from the hospital. The patients who have not taken the therapy improved 35.38 % and those who have taken the therapy improved 42.5 % on ISS. Discussion: The study revealed a 40% improvement in walking outside the home score at 3 months post stroke, confirming the recovery findings of in Literature. Additionally, 52% of subjects underwent physiotherapy treatment, resulting in functional improvement in walking, stair climbing, etc. indicating the benefits of physiotherapy. Conclusion: The study found that patients initially faced functional problems such as standing without support, walking outside, climbing stairs, toileting, and attending social functions. The improvement in functional problems include getting out of bed, standing without support, walking, bathing, dressing, eating, and participating in social functions. Keywords: Stroke, Functional Recovery, Indian population