Low-Intensity Exercise Can Reduce Depression in Stroke Survivors

Depression is a common consequence among stroke survivors, and can have negative effects on the success of rehabilitation.  Jocelyn Harris, from Toronto Rehabilitation Institute (Ontario, Canada), and colleagues have found that a low-intense exercise program can reduce depression symptoms and boost physical therapy results in recovering stroke patients.    The team followed 103 recovering stroke patients who were all receiving regular, standard treatment in hospital, to whom half (53 patients) were also enrolled in an additional, experimental program for upper limb recovery called Graded Repetitive Arm Supplementary Program (GRASP).  Patients in the GRASP group spent an extra 35 minutes four times a week doing non-intense arm exercises as part of rehabilitation activities, such as pouring water in a glass, buttoning up a shirt, or playing speed and accuracy games.  The GRASP treatment program improved stroke-affected arm and hand function by 33% as well as improving the amount that the patient used their arm and hands.  In addition, at four weeks, the GRASP patients also reported less depressive symptoms and greater change scores than those seen in the control group, with the beneficial effects lasting up to five months.