Epidemiological profile of stroke and physical therapy rehabilitation needs: An integrative review

Abstract

Introduction: Stroke is a major public health issue due to the high incidence of hospitalizations and deaths, as well as the motor and functional consequences for survivors. Its distribution varies according to age, sex, race/ethnicity, and geographic region, while the resulting sequelae can compromise mobility, functional independence, and quality of life, making physical therapy rehabilitation crucial for continuity of care. Objective: To analyze the available literature regarding the relationship between the epidemiological profile of stroke and physical therapy rehabilitation needs, considering the functional consequences and recovery demands of affected individuals. Methods: This is a qualitative and descriptive integrative literature review conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO, and VHL (BVS) databases. Descriptors related to stroke, epidemiology, mortality, hospitalization, rehabilitation, and physical therapy were used. The search initially identified 74 records; after removing 14 duplicates, 60 studies underwent screening. Of these, 22 were evaluated in full text, and eight studies ultimately comprised the review sample. Findings were analyzed descriptively and qualitatively and organized into epidemiological and rehabilitation-related themes. Results: The studies revealed a significant burden of stroke-related hospitalizations and mortality, with the highest concentration of cases among older age groups and variations based on sex, race/ethnicity, and geographic location. Some longitudinal analyses showed a decline in hospitalization or mortality rates during specific periods and in certain locations, although the absolute numbers remain substantial. Among survivors, motor and functional impairments were identified that could affect mobility, independence, and quality of life. The evidence suggests that physical therapy may contribute to certain aspects of functional recovery, particularly through interventions tailored to individuals' functional needs. However, this interpretation requires caution, as only one of the eight included studies directly addressed physical therapy practice, while another examined access to rehabilitation services. In this context, disparities in access to rehabilitation were identified—particularly regarding race/ethnicity—along with the influence of social, economic, and family factors, as well as factors related to treatment adherence. Thus, while the findings do not allow for broad conclusions regarding the overall effectiveness of physical therapy, they indicate its potential contribution to specific aspects of functional recovery. Conclusion: Stroke has significant epidemiological, functional, and healthcare-related implications, requiring integration between prevention, timely care, and continuity of care beyond the acute phase. Physical therapy is a key component of post-stroke rehabilitation; however, the heterogeneity of studies and the limited number of investigations specifically addressing physical therapy interventions make it difficult to establish the superiority of specific techniques or protocols. There is, therefore, a clear need to expand access to rehabilitation and to conduct methodologically robust studies on functional outcomes and physical therapy strategies applied after a stroke.