High-intensity exercise for better recovery after stroke

Does High-intensity Exercise Lead to Better Functional Outcomes Early After Stroke in an Inpatient Rehabilitation Setting?

Not applicable Interventional Sengkang General Hospital · NCT06913127

This study tests if high-intensity exercise can help stroke patients recover better during their rehabilitation compared to low-intensity exercise.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment36 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorSengkang General Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Singapore)
Trial IDNCT06913127 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of high-intensity exercise (HIE) in improving functional outcomes for stroke patients during inpatient rehabilitation. A total of 36 participants will be randomly assigned to either a high-intensity or low-intensity exercise program for two weeks, with both groups receiving standard post-stroke physiotherapy. Outcomes will be measured by blinded therapists using various scales to assess functional independence, balance, mobility, and fatigue. The study aims to determine if HIE leads to better recovery compared to lower intensity exercises.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 21-99 who have experienced a first-ever, unilateral stroke and require inpatient rehabilitation.

Not a fit: Patients with uncontrolled cardiorespiratory diseases or those unable to follow commands may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance recovery outcomes for stroke patients in rehabilitation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with high-intensity exercise in rehabilitation settings, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Admitted for acute ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke and requiring inpatient rehabilitation for stroke
2. First-ever, single, unilateral stroke
3. Aged 21-99 years old
4. Able to walk 10m overground with minimal or moderate physical assistance
5. Cleared by physician to be medically stable to participate in high intensity exercise (HIE)
6. Participants have to be warded for inpatient rehabilitation for at least 10 consecutive weekdays

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Any central or peripheral nervous system or orthopedic injury that may limit ambulation or exercise
2. Uncontrolled cardiorespiratory disease
3. Inability to follow 3 steps commands
4. Patient unable to give consent for the study
5. Patient who is assessed unsuitable to don on the medical device fNIRS (eg patients who had undergone craniectomy and cranioplasty)

Where this trial is running

Singapore

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions StrokeStroke rehabilitationHigh-intensity
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.