Date Presented

Spring 5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Dr. Price Blair

Second Advisor

Ms. Leah Stevens

Third Advisor

Dr. Allison B. Jablonski

Abstract

Strokes are the leading cause of long-term disability in the United States, with recovery outcomes varying widely depending on the timing and quality of rehabilitation provided. Evidence suggests that there is a critical neuroplasticity window within the first 72 hours after a stroke's onset. This window can offer heightened potential in recovery outcomes; however, clinical guidelines are inconsistent in giving a timeline for stroke rehabilitation initiation. There are conflicting views and findings regarding early mobilization following a stroke. Some research points towards early initiation of rehabilitation enhancing recovery outcomes, while others caution against early movement and activity, specifically in patients who have suffered from severe strokes. These discrepancies highlight why evaluation of existing evidence can further the understanding of rehabilitation initiation and how it can impact the recovery outcomes of varying stroke survivors. This study conducts a systematic meta-analysis to evaluate whether initiation of rehabilitation prior to the first 72 hours after a stroke leads to improved recovery outcomes compared to initiation after the first 72 hours. Peer-reviewed studies were selected using the criteria included in the methods and analyzed for stroke type, timing of rehabilitation initiation, and recovery outcomes. By synthesizing findings across diverse populations in clinical contexts, this review suggests a general trend towards early rehabilitation within the first 72 hours, improving patient outcomes, although findings remain inconsistent across studies due to variation in patient populations and design.

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