Stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability. New rehabilitation therapies and approaches hold the promise of reducing the disability caused by stroke. Following stroke, the pattern of deficits and recovery, associated medical problems, and psychosocial factors vary among individuals, and it becomes critical to individualize rehabilitation program. Awareness of the pathophysiology and recovery patterns following stroke and attention to detail in medical and rehabilitative management enhance current functional outcome. The issues of when rehabilitation should begin, and what role rehabilitation should play acutely after stroke are changing rapidly. Based on studies demonstrating superior outcomes in programs that combine acute and rehabilitative care beginning immediately after stroke, many hospitals are developing practice protocols that require rehabilitation consultation and screening within 24 hours after stroke onset.
