Effect of aerobic exercise (walking) training on functional status and health-related quality of life in chronic stroke survivors: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Little is known about the effects of community-based walking programs in persons with chronic stroke. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of aerobic (walking) training on functional status and health-related quality of life in stroke survivors. METHODS A single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted. The intervention group (n=64) walked overground for 30 minutes, 3 times per week for 12 weeks. The control group (n=64) received massage to the affected side. Medical Outcomes Short Form, 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), was used to assess health-related quality of life; Barthel Index and Older Americans Resource and Services scale for functional status; 6-minute walk test for endurance; and Motricity Index for lower extremity strength. RESULTS There was a trend toward greater improvement over time for the Physical Health Component of the SF-36 (P=0.077) and significantly greater improvement over time for distance walked in 6 minutes in favor of the walking group (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Aerobic walking improves the physical health component of quality of life and endurance in persons with chronic stroke. It should form part of a comprehensive health promotion strategy. Clinical Trial Registration- Trial was not registered as enrollment commenced before 2005.