Chronic Stroke

Research reinforces the efficacy of exercise training in stroke rehabilitation, particularly in enhancing recovery. Studies indicate that incorporating low-impact, total-body cardiovascular exercise facilitated by recumbent cross trainers may significantly aid in improving mobility and functional independence post-stroke. 

Please see below for links to studies that utilized NuStep recumbent cross trainers as an exercise modality for participants post stroke in both inpatient and outpatient settings. 

Studies and summaries:

American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation | 2019

Research Summary

This study evaluated the implementation, safety and outcomes of the Stroke Recovery Program (SRP) at JFK Johnson Rehabilitation. The program was modified for stroke survivors from the established cardiac rehabilitation protocol.   As many stroke survivors are hemiplegic or have other physical limitations, NuStep recumbent cross trainers were used as the modality for the 36 exercise sessions.   

This study showed that the SRP with integrated cardiac rehabilitation was safe and well-received. It also showed an increase in cardiovascular and functional performance and a decrease in all-cause mortality. 

Authors

Cuccurullo, Sara J. MD; Fleming, Talya K. MD; Kostis, William J. MD, PhD; Greiss, Christine DO; Gizzi, Martin S. MD, PhD; Eckert, Anne AuD, MBA, CCC/A; Ray, Arlen Razon PT; Scarpati, Rosann RN; Cosgrove, Nora M. RN, CCRC; Beavers, Traymon BS; Cabrera, Javier PhD; Sargsyan, Davit MS; Kostis, John B. MD, D. Phil

Public Library of Science | 2017 

Research Summary

This study was conducted to determine the reliability of the exercise response (predicted peak VO2) using the total body recumbent stepper (TBRS) submaximal exercise test in healthy adults and adults participating in inpatient stroke rehabilitation.  The NuStep T5XR was used for this study.    

These results suggest that the exercise response is reliable for the TBRS submaximal exercise test for both groups. 

Authors

David R. Wilson, Anna E. Mattlage, Nicole M. Seier, Jonathan D. Todd, Brian G. Price, Sarah J. Kwapiszeski, Rakesh Vardey, Sandra A. Billinger

Physical Therapy | 2014 

Research Summary

This study evaluated the feasibility of a model of care that integrated aerobic training in an inpatient rehabilitation setting for patients in the subacute stage of stroke recovery. It concluded that an individualized exercise program within a group delivery model was feasibleNuStep recumbent cross trainers were used as part of the supervised exercise program. 

Authors

Biasin L, Sage MD, Bruntion K, Fraser J, Howe J, Bayley M, Brooks D, McIlroy WE, Mansfield A, Inness EL

Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy | 2012 

Research Summary

Individuals in the subacute stage of stroke participated in an 8-week moderate-high exercise training intervention using a recumbent stepper. After the intervention improvements were reported in brachial artery vasomotor reactivity and cardiovascular and physical performance. NuStep recumbent cross trainers were used during the study. 

Authors

Billinger SA, Mattlage AE, Ashenden AL, Lentz AA, Harter G, Rippee MA.