AVERT trial to begin in Glasgow

 An international research study called AVERT (A very early rehabilitation trial), is being carried out in the UK, coordinated by Professor Peter Langhorne of the University of Glasgow.

The study aims to establish whether very early rehabilitation on a stroke unit significantly enhances recovery after stroke.

The Stroke Association has funded £189,029 over 30 months towards the AVERT trial in the UK.

In this trial, physiotherapists and nurses will be trained in the very early mobilisation protocol to test whether starting ‘active' rehabilitation in hospital within 24 hours of stroke will lead to better recovery after stroke when compared to traditional approaches.

Professor Langhorne said:
"If early rehabilitation proves to be effective, this could be incorporated into hospital practice and could have major benefits for stroke survivors."

Maddy Halliday, Director Scotland of The Stroke Association said: “Every year in Scotland about between 12,000 and 15,000 people have a stroke and it is the leading cause of adult disability. Lack of mobility can leave stroke survivors feeling isolated and unable to go about their daily lives. If this trial proves that early rehabilitation is successful, then implementation could make a real difference to the independence of stroke survivors.”

For further information please contact Angie Macleod at The Stroke Association Scotland on 0131 555 7244 or or visit our website www.stroke.org.uk