Large variation in results was found due to heterogeneity of the studies. However, somatosensory deficits were shown to have an important role in upper limb motor and functional performance after stroke.

Objective: To examine the effect of randomized controlled trials of walking training on walking and self-care in patients with stroke. Data sources: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, PEDro, OTSeeker, Central, and manual search to the end of August 2012. Study selection: English, Finnish, Swedish, or German language walking training randomized controlled trials for patients over 18 years of age with stroke. Data synthesis: The meta-analyses included 38 randomized controlled trials from 44 reports. There was high evidence that in the subacute stage of stroke, specific walking training resulted in improved walking speed and distance compared with traditional walking training of the same intensity. In the chronic stage, walking training resulted in increased walking speed and walking distance compared with no/placebo treatment, and increased walking speed compared with overall physio therapy. On average, 24 training sessions for 7 weeks were needed. Conclusion: Walking training improves walking capacity and, to some extent, self-care in different stages of stroke, but the training frequency should be fairly high.

Walking distance and both self-reported and measured functioning improved during walking rehabilitation among elderly persons who had a stroke. Maintaining or improving functioning through rehabilitation and self-administered exercises may be important in supporting mobility and independent living outside institutional care.

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