Stroke
Stroke is a cardiovascular condition involving an acute clinical event and, for some people, ongoing recovery needs. Research discussed in this context includes prevention, treatment alongside standard care for acute ischemic stroke, and rehabilitation-related outcomes such as spasticity and quality of life after stroke.
Stroke is classified as a cardiovascular condition. See its place within this area of health.
This list shows research findings, not treatments. Nothing here replaces medical care. If you have this condition, talk to a doctor.
What may help
What studies found for each option, best evidence first.
23 options:1 good evidence9 some evidence11 not enough evidence2 no benefit found
QigongpracticeGood evidence it helpsSize of effect: Not known
Good human studies found a benefit, and they mostly agree. This is about what studies measured, not a cure.
All 7 studies with a clear result found a benefit.
Pooled randomized trials in stroke survivors reported improvements in daily activities, neurological function, quality of life, mobility, walking and dynamic balance.
Open the Qigong pageStrength TrainingpracticeSome evidence it helpsSize of effect: Large
Some human studies found a benefit. More research could change this.
7 of 8 studies found a benefit; 1 found none.
Pooled randomized trials found probable increases in muscle strength and a small balance improvement in people with Stroke; mortality was unchanged. They also found improved comfortable walking speed, but not fast walking speed or endurance, while a separate analysis found no significant differences between RTR and SR for lower limb or gait function.
Open the Strength Training pageSwimmingpracticeSome evidence it helpsSize of effect: Not known
Some human studies found a benefit. More research could change this.
All 2 studies with a clear result found a benefit.
Pooled analyses whose study designs were not recorded reported improvements in multiple quality-of-life domains among people with Stroke. Another pooled analysis whose study designs were not recorded found better balance, motor function, cardiorespiratory fitness, and functional independence with aquatic exercise than with land-based exercise.
Open the Swimming pageAcceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)practiceSome evidence it helpsSize of effect: Large
Some human studies found a benefit. More research could change this.
All 4 studies with a clear result found a benefit.
A pooled analysis of randomized trials found that quality of life favored ACT in people with stroke. One RCT also found a higher cognitive function score in the ACT group.
Open the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) pageHigh-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)practiceSome evidence it helpsSize of effect: Not known
Some human studies found a benefit. More research could change this.
All 16 studies with a clear result found a benefit.
A 2025 meta-analysis of randomized trials in stroke survivors reported improvements in aerobic capacity, motor and cognitive function, and quality of life. The findings apply to stroke survivors, the population studied.
Open the High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) pageMobility TrainingpracticeSome evidence it helpsSize of effect: Not known
Some human studies found a benefit. More research could change this.
All 6 studies with a clear result found a benefit.
A systematic review of randomized trials found that dual-task balance and mobility training improved single-task walking and balance in people with Stroke, although the review noted weak methodological quality.
Open the Mobility Training pagePilatespracticeSome evidence it helpsSize of effect: Not known
Some human studies found a benefit. More research could change this.
All 6 studies with a clear result found a benefit.
In people after stroke, a 2021 pooled analysis of randomized trials found improvements in physiological parameters. A 2019 review also reported one RCT in which the Pilates group increased VO2 max and VO2 max per kg.
Open the Pilates pageTai ChipracticeSome evidence it helpsSize of effect: Not known
Some human studies found a benefit. More research could change this.
All 9 studies with a clear result found a benefit.
A pooled analysis whose study designs were not recorded reported improvements in mobility, walking, balance and activities of daily living after stroke. A pooled analysis of randomized trials also found a higher FMA-UE score with Tai Chi than with standard of care.
Open the Tai Chi page
The expert view shows every study, dose protocol and source.
What may help
Interventions recorded as helping with this condition23 listedHighest probability, strongest evidence
- →PracticesQigongCertaintyHighSourceMeta-analysis
Pooled randomized trials in stroke survivors reported improvements in daily activities, neurological function, quality of life, mobility, walking and dynamic balance.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Dementia
- Mild Cognitive Impairment
- Parkinsons Disease
- Stroke
- Traumatic Brain Injury
Open QigongStudy result
Meta-analysis of 16 RCTs showing improvements in ADL, neurological function, and quality of life.
Medium probability(9)
- →PracticesStrength TrainingCertaintyMediumSourceMeta-analysisLarge effect
Pooled randomized trials found probable increases in muscle strength and a small balance improvement in people with Stroke; mortality was unchanged. They also found improved comfortable walking speed, but not fast walking speed or endurance, while a separate analysis found no significant differences between RTR and SR for lower limb or gait function.
How big is the effect
Large effectA big difference on average. Check how strong the evidence is.
Who was studied
- Healthy people and patients
- Stroke
Open Strength TrainingStudy result
Pooled RCTs found probable increases in muscle strength and a small balance improvement in people with stroke; mortality was unchanged.
- →PracticesSwimmingCertaintyMediumSourceMeta-analysis
Pooled analyses whose study designs were not recorded reported improvements in multiple quality-of-life domains among people with Stroke. Another pooled analysis whose study designs were not recorded found better balance, motor function, cardiorespiratory fitness, and functional independence with aquatic exercise than with land-based exercise.
Who was studied
- Stroke
Open SwimmingStudy result
Network meta-analysis of 41 RCTs in stroke patients showing AQE and ALCE improve multiple quality-of-life domains.
- →PracticesAcceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)CertaintyMediumSourceRCTLarge effect
A pooled analysis of randomized trials found that quality of life favored ACT in people with stroke (SMD = 1.36, 95% CI 0.69 to 2.02). One RCT also found a higher cognitive function score in the ACT group (P<0.05).
How big is the effect
Large effectA big difference on average. Check how strong the evidence is.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Coronary Artery Disease
- Heart Disease
- Heart Failure
- Stroke
Open Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Study result
Pooled SMD for quality of life in stroke patients favored ACT (SMD = 1.36, 95% CI 0.69 to 2.02).
- →PracticesHigh-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)CertaintyMediumSourceRCT
A 2025 meta-analysis of randomized trials in stroke survivors reported improvements in aerobic capacity, motor and cognitive function, and quality of life. The findings apply to stroke survivors, the population studied.
Who was studied
- Healthy people and patients
- Asthma
- Cancer
- Copd
- Coronary Artery Disease
- Diabetes Type2
- Fatty Liver Nafld
- +8 more
Open High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)Study result
Meta-analysis of 17 RCTs in adults with stroke; the review population was stroke survivors, and the findings apply to this population only.
- →PracticesMobility TrainingCertaintyMediumSourceRCT
A systematic review of randomized trials found that dual-task balance and mobility training improved single-task walking and balance in people with Stroke, although the review noted weak methodological quality.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Stroke
Open Mobility TrainingStudy result
Systematic review of RCTs in individuals with stroke; dual-task balance and mobility training improved single-task walking and balance in this population, with weak methodological quality.
- →PracticesPilatesCertaintyMediumSourceRCT
In people after stroke, a 2021 pooled analysis of randomized trials found improvements in physiological parameters. A 2019 review also reported one RCT in which the Pilates group increased VO2 max and VO2 max per kg.
Who was studied
- Healthy people and patients
- Breast Cancer
- Diabetes Type2
- Heart Failure
- Obesity
- Osteoporosis
- Overweight
- +2 more
Open PilatesStudy result
Included studies with post-stroke patients; Pilates improved physiological parameters.
- →PracticesTai ChiCertaintyMediumSourceRCT
A pooled analysis whose study designs were not recorded reported improvements in mobility, walking, balance and activities of daily living after stroke. A pooled analysis of randomized trials also found a higher FMA-UE score with Tai Chi than with standard of care (MD 9.4, 95% CI 2.0 to 17.0).
Who was studied
- Healthy people and patients
- Stroke
Open Tai ChiStudy result
Meta-analysis of 27 RCTs showing significant improvements in mobility, walking, balance, and ADL.
- →PracticesTENS / EMS TherapyCertaintyMediumSourceRCTModerate effect
Pooled analyses whose designs were not recorded found reduced post-stroke spasticity, with an effect size of SMD -0.64 (95% CI -0.91 to -0.37, P<0.001); benefits were reported across acute, subacute, and chronic phases, and 100 Hz stimulation was significant. Other reviewed trials reported lower spasticity scores and improved balance with HF-TENS at 50-200 Hz.
How big is the effect
Moderate effectA clear difference on average.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Stroke
Open TENS / EMS TherapyStudy result
Meta-analysis of 17 RCTs: TENS significantly reduced post-stroke spasticity (SMD -0.64, 95% CI -0.91 to -0.37, P<0.001); benefits were seen across acute, subacute, and chronic phases, and 100 Hz stimulation was significant.
- →PracticesCyclingCertaintyMediumSourceClinical
A review of randomized and non-randomized human studies found improved walking capacity and gait velocity in stroke survivors across cycling studies, with none reporting declines. A separate review reported improved balance and gait with stationary cycling, and similar maintenance of walking capacity to disability-targeted exercises after stroke rehabilitation.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Stroke
Open CyclingStudy result
Walking capacity and gait velocity improved in stroke survivors across included cycling studies; none reported declines.
Low probability(11)
- →PracticesDanceCertaintyLowSourceRCT
A review describes Dance/Movement Therapy as effective in post-stroke rehabilitation, but does not detail which outcomes changed or the size of any effect.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Huntingtons Disease
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Parkinsons Disease
- Stroke
Open DanceStudy result
Abstract states dance movement therapy is effective in post-stroke rehabilitation, without outcome or effect size detail.
- →PracticesGardening TherapyCertaintyLowSourceRCT
One RCT found improved physical function when horticultural therapy was combined with acupuncture in people who had experienced a stroke, so the finding does not establish an effect of horticultural therapy alone.
Who was studied
- Healthy people and patients
- Alzheimers Disease
- Cancer
- Dementia
- Depression
- Frailty
- Stroke
Open Gardening TherapyStudy result
One RCT showed HT plus acupuncture improved physical function in stroke patients.
- →PracticesBrisk WalkingCertaintyLowSourceClinical
A 2026 randomized controlled trial in 47 people after Stroke found the HiWalk program feasible and improved walking self-efficacy. An exploratory analysis found improved walking speed among participants not undertaking rehabilitation.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Stroke
Open Brisk WalkingStudy result
The HiWalk program was feasible and improved walking self-efficacy in people after stroke. Exploratory analysis showed significant improvement in walking speed for those not undertaking rehabilitation.
- →PracticesFinnish SaunaCertaintyLowSourceClinical
An observational cohort of 1,628 people associated frequent sauna bathing with reduced risk of incident stroke.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
Open Finnish SaunaStudy result
Cohort association of frequent sauna bathing with reduced incident stroke risk
- →PracticesMassageCertaintyLowSourceClinical
A trial in 66 neurological ICU patients with acute stroke found that hand massage reduced pain and anxiety and increased comfort at 60 minutes after the intervention. However, pooled randomized trials found non-significant results in the adult-stroke subgroup, with substantial heterogeneity (I² 73%).
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Stroke
Open MassageStudy result
RCT in 66 neurological ICU patients with acute stroke showed hand massage significantly reduced pain (VAS) and anxiety (STAI) and increased comfort (GCS-SF) at 60 minutes post-intervention (p<0.05).
- →PracticesMeditationCertaintyLowSourceClinical
In a 2024 randomized trial of 72 people with coronary artery disease or stroke, sleep quality scores improved with mindfulness meditation compared with eszopiclone at 6 and 12 weeks.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Coronary Artery Disease
- Stroke
Open MeditationStudy result
Sleep quality (PSQI) improved with mindfulness meditation versus eszopiclone at 6 and 12 weeks.
- →PracticesMindfulness MeditationCertaintyLowSourceClinical
An RCT involving 72 people found that mindfulness meditation improved sleep quality and negative emotions in the trial population.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Coronary Artery Disease
- Stroke
Open Mindfulness MeditationStudy result
Mindfulness meditation improved sleep quality and negative emotions in the trial population, which is the patient-important outcome for these patients.
- →PracticesPursed-Lip BreathingCertaintyLowSourceClinical
A 2017 randomized controlled trial in 30 people with Stroke found that 4 weeks of combined Diaphragmatic Breathing and Pursed-Lip Breathing increased respiratory muscle activation on the paretic side.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Stroke
Open Pursed-Lip BreathingStudy result
RCT showing significant increases in paretic side respiratory muscle activation after 4 weeks of combined diaphragm and pursed-lip breathing exercise
- →PracticesRed Light Therapy (Photobiomodulation)CertaintyLowSourceClinical
A review of randomized and non-randomized human studies reported improved functional mobility and cognitive function, and reduced disability, when photobiomodulation was combined with magnetic, electromagnetic, or neuromuscular electrical stimulation. The reported effects were for combined treatments, not photobiomodulation alone.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Als
- Alzheimers Disease
- Carpal Tunnel
- Fibromyalgia
- Neuropathy Peripheral
- Parkinsons Disease
- +1 more
Open Red Light Therapy (Photobiomodulation)Study result
Clinical trials showing PBM combined with magnetic field, electromagnetic field, or NMES improved functional mobility, cognitive function, and reduced disability
- →PracticesFoam RollingCertaintyLowSourceClinical
In a trial of 30 people with stroke, a single session with a vibrating foam roller improved ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and gait.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Stroke
Open Foam RollingStudy result
Single-session vibrating foam roller improved dorsiflexion ROM and gait in stroke patients.
- →PracticesBreathworkCertaintyLowSourceReview
A narrative review suggested breathing exercises, particularly slow breathing, may contribute to cognitive functional improvement after stroke, but noted that direct studies were lacking.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
Open BreathworkStudy result
Narrative review synthesis suggesting breathing exercises contribute to cognitive functional improvement in stroke patients; slow breathing inferred most helpful; direct studies lacking.
Very low probability(2)
- →PracticesBinaural BeatsCertaintyVery lowSourceClinical
A 2025 pilot study in 12 people with chronic stroke found no immediate effect of 4-Hz binaural beats on prefrontal cortical activity. Music alone increased alpha power.
Open Binaural BeatsWho was studied
- People with a condition
- Stroke
- →PracticesThai MassageCertaintyVery lowSourceClinical
A 2024 randomized trial in 33 people found no significant differences at day 20 between Thai traditional massage plus physical therapy and physical therapy alone in BI, NIHSS, SS-QOL, or motor power; studies did not support this indication.
Open Thai MassageWho was studied
- People with a condition
- Stroke
What to avoid
Interventions recorded as making it worseNothing in this library is currently recorded as making Stroke worse. Coverage is partial, and absence here is not evidence of safety.
How to read the evidence
Evidence tier — overall strength of the evidence for the whole compound
- StrongWell established — backed by strong, consistent human research.
- ModerateSome genuine support, but mostly from small or lower-quality studies. Promising, not proven.
- PreliminaryEarly-stage evidence — a promising hypothesis, not an established effect yet.
- LimitedVery limited evidence — treat this as a hypothesis, not proof.
- InsufficientNot enough good evidence to draw conclusions yet.
Certainty — how sure we can be that the effect is real
- Very highVery sure — strong, consistent evidence
- HighFairly sure — consistent evidence from good studies
- MediumModerately sure — new studies could change this
- LowNot sure — little or mixed evidence
- Very lowVery unsure — almost no usable evidence
Source — where the data comes from
- Meta-analysisPooled analysis of many trials — the strongest evidence
- RCTRandomized controlled trial — a strong human study design
- ClinicalA human clinical study
- Reference knowledgeFrom general health-science or pharmacology references, not a study of this exact claim
- Animal researchStudied in animals, not humans
- Community reportsAggregated user reports — anecdotal signal, not evidence
- TheoreticalMechanism-based reasoning, not yet tested
Study grade — quality of each underlying study (A best, D weakest)
- AHigh-quality — strong, consistent human trials
- BGood — solid evidence with some limitations
- CModerate — limited, small, or mixed-quality studies
- DWeak — preliminary, indirect, or animal-only
Confidence — how strongly the sources back a finding
A 0–100 score from study quality and agreement
Most supplement evidence is graded C–D. Read it as preliminary signal, not proof.
Full write-up
What is it
Stroke is a cardiovascular condition involving an acute clinical event and, for some people, ongoing recovery needs. Research discussed in this context includes prevention, treatment alongside standard care for acute ischemic stroke, and rehabilitation-related outcomes such as spasticity and quality of life after stroke.
These contexts are distinct: an approach studied for prevention is not necessarily studied for acute treatment or recovery. Examples discussed include Vitamin B9 (Folate), Ginkgo Biloba, Swimming, and TENS / EMS Therapy.
Evidence-backed options
The evidence covers several different goals rather than one uniform treatment approach. Some findings concern prevention of stroke, including folic acid supplementation, potassium intake, calcium intake, and vitamin E. Others concern recovery or complications after stroke: Ginkgo Biloba has been studied as a complementary therapy alongside rt-PA in acute ischemic stroke, while TENS / EMS Therapy and Swimming have been evaluated for post-stroke function and quality of life. These distinctions matter because evidence for preventing a first stroke does not automatically establish benefit after a stroke has occurred.
The timing and duration of use are not consistently reported. One clinical study used L-Carnitine at 3 g/day for seven days in first-ever stroke patients, while the Ginkgo Biloba finding concerns an acute setting. Astaxanthin was given before ischemic stroke in an animal model, so that result does not describe treatment after stroke in people. No general onset time for benefits is established across these options.
The evidence is strongest when findings come from clinical research or randomized trials, but the certainty and relevance still vary by outcome and population. Several options, including Astaxanthin, Berberine, Melatonin, and Resveratrol, are supported here by animal studies rather than human treatment evidence. Panax Ginseng has many preclinical studies but few clinical trials, and vitamin E research reported insufficient information for firm conclusions. These options should therefore be interpreted as areas of research rather than interchangeable treatments. A clinician can help place any option in the context of stroke type, timing, and overall care.
What to avoid
Cigarette Smoking is flagged because it promotes thrombosis, arterial injury, and vasoconstriction. Together, these effects can increase recurrent cerebrovascular events and impair vascular recovery after a stroke.
These concerns relate to several overlapping effects on blood vessels and circulation rather than to a single isolated pathway. Because the considerations apply to recovery and the risk of further cerebrovascular events, anyone with a medical condition such as stroke can discuss cigarette smoking and its implications with a clinician.