Impact of early mobilization on functional outcomes after ischemic stroke
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62827/fb.v27i6.1227Keywords:
Ischemic Stroke; Early Mobilization; Neurological Rehabilitation; Functional Status; Outcome Assessment.Abstract
Introduction: Ischemic stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and functional disability worldwide. Early mobilization is used in the rehabilitation of these patients to enhance neurological recovery and reduce complications associated with prolonged immobility; however, there remains disagreement regarding the optimal timing and intensity of these interventions. The objective of this study is to understand the benefits of early mobilization, the most appropriate time to begin it, and its impact on functional independence over time. Methods: This is a systematic review with a meta-analysis. Searches were conducted in the PubMed/MEDLINE (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online), Cochrane Library, EBSCOhost, and SciELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online) databases; seven studies were included, totaling 782 participants. Results: Early mobilization was shown to be associated with better functional outcomes when initiated between 24 and 48 hours after an ischemic stroke. Protocols initiated within less than 24 hours yielded less favorable results. Improvements were also observed in balance, functional ability, and a reduction in complications related to immobility, including venous thromboembolism, pressure ulcers, and pneumonia. In elderly patients, structured early mobilization protocols demonstrated additional clinical and functional benefits. Conclusion: Early mobilization has proven to be a safe and effective strategy for patients with acute ischemic stroke, especially when initiated between 24 and 48 hours after the event. The intervention contributes to greater functional independence and a lower incidence of complications associated with immobility. However, further studies are needed to more precisely define the optimal time window and the appropriate intensity of early interventions.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ana Carolina Furio da Cunha, Caroline de Faria, Cecília Abreu Gonçalves, Rafael Endringer Gava, Maria Cecília Ataíde Gomes (Autor)
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