What is a critical factor affecting post-stroke rehabilitation outcomes?

The initial level of function is a pivotal factor in determining rehabilitation outcomes after a stroke. This is because patients with a higher initial level of function tend to have better overall recovery potential and capacity to engage in rehabilitation activities. Research consistently shows that those who retain more functional abilities immediately following a stroke face a less arduous path in regaining independence.

Patients who arrive at rehabilitation with substantial impairments may require more intensive and prolonged therapy to reach similar levels of recovery as those who initially exhibit better functional capabilities. For instance, individuals who can perform basic self-care tasks generally have a significantly improved prognosis compared to those who require assistance with basic tasks. Therefore, the initial level of function serves as a strong indicator of the trajectory and success of rehabilitation efforts in post-stroke patients.

When considering other factors like treatment frequency, patient’s age, or duration of hospital stay, while they may impact rehabilitation, they often have a less direct correlation with the outcomes than the patient's baseline functional abilities.