* There are 68,400 strokes each year in the UK, causing 55,000 deaths and costing the NHS £1.36 billion.
* Patients who have had a stroke are usually highly de-conditioned, with half the average VO2 maximum.
After a stroke regular walking can increase self-selected walking speed, reduce dependence on external aids (so maintaining independence), and reduce fatigue.
One study reported a decreased risk for stroke across increasing categories of walking pace in women26.
Most patients who have had a stroke will be encouraged to walk through their physiotherapy-led rehabilitation. There appears to be less structured walking programme for stroke patients. NICE will publish guidelines on stroke rehabilitation in 2009
* Patients who have had a stroke are usually highly de-conditioned, with half the average VO2 maximum.
After a stroke regular walking can increase self-selected walking speed, reduce dependence on external aids (so maintaining independence), and reduce fatigue.
One study reported a decreased risk for stroke across increasing categories of walking pace in women26.
Most patients who have had a stroke will be encouraged to walk through their physiotherapy-led rehabilitation. There appears to be less structured walking programme for stroke patients. NICE will publish guidelines on stroke rehabilitation in 2009