Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine

Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine (JRM) is an international, non-profit, Open Access journal, publishing articles on a broad range of topics within the field.

The journal strives to provide its readers with a variety of topics, including: functional assessment and intervention studies, clinical studies in various patient groups, methodology in physical and rehabilitation medicine, epidemiological studies on disabling conditions and reports on vocational and sociomedical aspects of rehabilitation. The journal is read by a wide group of healthcare profess

ionals including specialists in rehabilitation medicine, neurology, clinical neurophysiology, general medicine, psychologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and social workers.

Evolution of goal setting and attainment over repeated cycles of botulinum toxin A for upper limb spasticity in real-lif...
28/04/2026

Evolution of goal setting and attainment over repeated cycles of botulinum toxin A for upper limb spasticity in real-life clinical practice: longitudinal analyses from the observational ULIS-III cohort study

Authors: Lynne Turner-Stokes, Klemens Fheodoroff, Jorge Jacinto, Mathieu Beneteau, Pascal Maisonobe, Christian Hannes, Stephen Ashford

The ULIS-III study followed people with upper limb (arm and shoulder) spasticity who were treated with botulinum toxin A over 2 years in routine practice. The aim was to understand how well patients achieved their personal treatment goals across repeated treatment cycles. Researchers focused on 538 individuals who received at least 4 cycles of botulinum toxin A and used a method called Goal Attainment Scaling to track progress. This approach allowed patients to set goals that were meaningful to them, such as improving movement or reducing pain. The study found that most patients continued to set the same types of goals over repeated injections and while the improvement in Goal Attainment Scaling scores became slightly smaller, the likelihood of achieving goals increased with each cycle. This suggests a cumulative benefit from repeated treatment. Importantly, how the treatment was delivered had a bigger impact on success than patient characteristics like age or s*x, indicating that most people have potential to benefit from this repeated treatment. Using techniques to guide the injection accurately into the target muscles – such as ultrasound, electromyogram, or electrical stimulation – was strongly linked to better outcomes. Higher doses of botulinum toxin A also improved the chances of success, although most patients were treated with doses below the maximum allowed. Overall, the study supports the long-term use of botulinum toxin A for managing upper limb spasticity and highlights the importance of setting clear goals and using precise injection techniques. These findings can help clinicians tailor treatment plans and improve outcomes for people living with spasticity.

https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v58.45139

Sacroiliac joint synostosis as an atypical cause of sports-related groin pain: a case reportAuthors: Lina Van Brabander,...
21/04/2026

Sacroiliac joint synostosis as an atypical cause of sports-related groin pain: a case report

Authors: Lina Van Brabander, Tom Nonneman, Marc Schiltz, Bernard Floré, Samar M. Hatem

https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v58.45687

Effect of inspiratory muscle training on inspiratory muscle strength in adults with post-COVID-19 condition and inspirat...
21/04/2026

Effect of inspiratory muscle training on inspiratory muscle strength in adults with post-COVID-19 condition and inspiratory muscle weakness: a randomized controlled trial

Authors: Anna Törnberg, Anna Svensson-Raskh, Elisabeth Rydwik, Alexandra Halvarsson, Judith Bruchfeld, Malin Nygren-Bonnier

Some people with post-COVID-19 condition experience breathing difficulties and weakness in the inspiratory muscles (muscles used to inhale). This study tested whether training these muscles could help improve muscle strength and symptoms. Participants were randomly divided into 2 groups:1 performed inspiratory muscle training twice daily and personalised physical exercise twice weekly, while the other performed the physical exercise programme alone. Both groups met with a physiotherapist once a week for 8 weeks. The group that trained breathing muscles improved more in inspiratory muscle strength and reported less frequent coughing. Other outcomes were similar between the groups. Because fewer people were enrolled than planned, and those with the most severe fatigue often could not participate, the results should be interpreted with some caution. These findings suggest that inspiratory muscle training may help people with post-COVID-19 condition and weak breathing muscles to strengthen their inspiratory muscle strength and reduce cough frequency.

https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v58.44931

Beyond spasticity reduction: botulinum toxin-a injection is associated with changes in abnormal flexor synergies of the ...
21/04/2026

Beyond spasticity reduction: botulinum toxin-a injection is associated with changes in abnormal flexor synergies of the upper limb in chronic stroke

Authors: Michiyuki Kawakami, Daisuke Ito, Ken Azuma, Takayuki Kamimoto, Arisa Kawabata, Tetsuya Tsuji

Botulinum toxin injections are widely used to reduce muscle stiffness in people who have had a stroke. However, stroke can also cause abnormal movement patterns that make it difficult to control the arm during daily activities. It is not well known whether this treatment can improve these movement problems. In this study, we examined changes in arm movement before and after botulinum toxin injections in people with long-term stroke. We found that the treatment was associated not only with reduced muscle stiffness but also with changes in abnormal movement patterns. These findings suggest that botulinum toxin injections may help improve arm movement, and not just reduce muscle stiffness. This may help clinicians better evaluate treatment effects and plan rehabilitation.

https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v58.44906

Prevalence and biopsychosocial predictors of post-stroke fatigue in patients with minor strokesAuthors: Anita Kjeverud, ...
21/04/2026

Prevalence and biopsychosocial predictors of post-stroke fatigue in patients with minor strokes

Authors: Anita Kjeverud, Stein Andersson, Anners Lerdal, Anne-Kristine Schanke, Kristin Østlie

Post-stroke fatigue is a common consequence of stroke and is rated among the worst symptoms to cope with by stroke patients. Little is known about the prevalence of post-stroke fatigue and which factors are associated with fatigue in minor stroke patients, although the majority of stroke patients suffer minor stroke. In this observational study of 72 minor stroke patients, we investigated the prevalence of post-stroke fatigue and explored how biopsychosocial factors such as medical, psychological, physiological, and cognitive factors were associated with fatigue 1 year post stroke. This study indicates that post-stroke fatigue is present in a subgroup of patients with minor stroke. Post-stroke fatigue was associated with psychological distress symptoms, stroke-related impairments, and fatigue in the acute phase. For clinicians, it is important to identify fatigue when present as it impacts on life quality and ability to return to work. Based on our results we suggest a short screening in the early stages after stroke assessing fatigue, psychological distress, stroke-related impairments, and self-report of cognitive and visual dysfunction.

https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v58.44763

Does aerobic exercise affect memory, attention, working memory, and fatigue after acquired brain injury? A single-blinde...
16/04/2026

Does aerobic exercise affect memory, attention, working memory, and fatigue after acquired brain injury? A single-blinded, randomized controlled pilot study

Authors: Eygló Ingólfsdóttir, Ulla Bergfeldt , Märta Berthold Lindstedt , Lennart Bergfeldt , Tie-Qiang LI , Tomas Jonsson, Marika C. Möller

Acquired brain injury can affect cognition and cause fatigue. Aerobic exercise has been linked to improved cognition in the general population. This is thought to occur through boosting neuroplasticity, that is to say the brain’s ability to change and adapt. We explored the potential effects of aerobic exercise after acquired brain injury and investigated whether any changes in the brain could be detected. This was done through an 8-week period of 30 min of aerobic exercise, 3–4 times a week, for a group of 6 patients compared with 6 patients who did their usual training. Functional magnetic resonance imaging was used to detect any potential changes in the brain. The preliminary results showed no significant benefits for the treatment group. However, compared with before treatment, the treatment group showed preliminary improvements in how quickly they could process complex information. The control group showed preliminary improvements in simple visual scanning. Larger studies are needed.

https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v58.44745

Early multidimensional mobility assessments for discriminating discharge-level ambulation and functional independence in...
16/04/2026

Early multidimensional mobility assessments for discriminating discharge-level ambulation and functional independence in subacute stroke inpatients: a retrospective cohort study

Authors: Seung Heun An, Eun Joo Kim, Jun Min Lee

Regaining independent walking and functional independence is a key goal of stroke rehabilitation.
Early identification of patients who are likely to achieve
these outcomes can support goal setting and discharge planning. This study examined whether mobility and balance assessments performed shortly after admission could distinguish patients who achieved independent walking and functional independence by discharge. In 50 subacute stroke inpatients who required supervised walking on admission, the Berg Balance Scale and the modified Four Square Step Test showed the strongest ability to distinguish discharge-level outcomes among commonly used assessments. These balance-based, multidirectional mobility tests may serve as practical screening tools to support rehabilitation planning and discharge decision-making in subacute stroke inpatient rehabilitation.

https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v58.45503

Specific components of manual dexterity are affected in patients with writer’s cramp: an observational comparative study...
09/04/2026

Specific components of manual dexterity are affected in patients with writer’s cramp: an observational comparative study and preliminary rehabilitation report

Authors: Jean-Pierre Bleton, Raphael B. Takyi, Marion Verneau, Cedric Monchaud, Thierry Peron Magnan, Sophie Sangla, Amélie Yavchitz, Marc A. Maier, Påvel G. Lindberg

Although writer’s cramp is considered a handwriting-specific disorder, some deficits in wider upper-limb and hand use have previously been observed. However, for dextrous hand movements in particular, it remains unclear which components of manual dexterity are impaired in writer’s cramp and how they change with rehabilitation. We assessed these components (e.g., finger force control, finger tapping, finger independence) and found that finger independence (selective movement of 1 finger without concomitant movements of neighbouring fingers) was affected in writer’s cramp, but not the other components of dexterity. Lower finger independence was related to slower handwriting speed and worse legibility, i.e., typical symptoms of writer’s cramp. Rehabilitation improved manual dexterity, but bettered handwriting only modestly. Clinically, our results indicate that patients with writer’s cramp do show hand movement deficits in the non-writing context, and suggest that these patients can profit from a wider rehabilitation approach than conventional training of handwriting.

https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v58.45215

Quality of rehabilitation care in Portuguese stroke units: findings from 2017–2018 and 2023 national cross‑sectional sur...
30/03/2026

Quality of rehabilitation care in Portuguese stroke units: findings from 2017–2018 and 2023 national cross‑sectional surveys

Authors: Joana Teles Sarmento, Ana Alves, Paulo Castro-Chaves, Bárbara M. Cruz, Cristina Jácome

Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and death in Portugal. Rehabilitation is essential to help people recover after a stroke and to improve their quality of life. To understand how stroke rehabilitation is organized in Portugal, we carried out 2 national surveys, in 2017–2018 and in 2023, covering all official stroke units. We asked about rehabilitation teams, care coordination, early assessments, and discharge planning. Most units had key professionals, such as physiatrists, physiotherapists, nurses, speech therapists and social workers, but only a few had the full recommended team, especially lacking occupational therapists and psychologists. Rehabilitation usually started quickly, although less often at weekends. Screening for swallowing problems was common, but bladder problems were rarely assessed. Planning for rehabilitation after hospital discharge was frequent and has improved. These results show progress but also highlight gaps that need attention to ensure better recovery for patients with stroke.

https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v58.44855

Commonalities in rehabilitation data across diverse health conditions: a comparison of seven large European databasesAut...
23/03/2026

Commonalities in rehabilitation data across diverse health conditions: a comparison of seven large European databases

Authors: Carlotte Kiekens, Helena Burger, Paolo Capodaglio, Maria G. Ceravolo, Esther Janssen, Greta Jurenaite, Calogero Malfitano, Federico Pennestri, Ruud Selles, Gianluca M. Tartaglia, Stefano Negrini

Rehabilitation is vital to healthcare, yet data collection remains inconsistent. Although numerous clinical databases exist, little is known about the similarities and differences in rehabilitation data across illnesses and settings. In this study, we analysed 7 European rehabilitation databases to identify what information is typically recorded and what is missing. We found that diagnosis, pain level, and overall well-being are often measured, whereas details on how well a patient can walk, perform self-care, or participate in social life after leaving hospital are often lacking. These gaps make it difficult for healthcare providers to compare results or create the best recovery plans for individuals. By standardizing the information we collect, we can improve decision-making and ensure every patient receives care tailored to their specific needs.

https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v58.45495

Comparing people with persisting post-concussion symptoms from an emergency department-based research sample with patien...
23/03/2026

Comparing people with persisting post-concussion symptoms from an emergency department-based research sample with patients in a clinical rehabilitation sample: an explorative, retrospective analysis

Authors: Maria I. Sandboe, Linda Fordal, Alexander Olsen, Grant L. Iverson, Helge Skirbekk, Mille Møller Thastum, Jørgen Fældbæk Nielsen, Simen Berg Saksvik, Toril Skandsen

Having persisting symptoms after mild head trauma, referred to as persisting post-concussion symptoms, is not rare, yet the condition remains poorly understood. To provide better treatment, we need to accumulate knowledge on the individuals in need of healthcare for persisting post-concussion symptoms. Findings from studies of patients seen in emergency departments after an acute mild head injury may not be representative for patients seen in other settings, such as rehabilitation clinics. This study compared 2 different groups of individuals with persisting post-concussion symptoms, 1 comprising patients referred for treatment at a specialized rehabilitation clinic and 1 comprising individuals followed from an Emergency ­Department. We found that the patients referred to the rehabilitation clinic had more severe symptoms and more ­difficulties in daily life after injury, despite having sustained a milder injury. These findings highlight the need for more research on those seeking specialized healthcare to improve clinical care and potentially prevent prolonged symptoms and problems.

https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v58.45004

Andorra as a living lab? The inSCI exampleAuthors: Mercè Avellanet, Gerold Stucki, Esther Pages, Anna Boada-Pladellorens...
23/03/2026

Andorra as a living lab? The inSCI example

Authors: Mercè Avellanet, Gerold Stucki, Esther Pages, Anna Boada-Pladellorens, Christian Grillo, Juli Minoves-Triquell, Jerome Bickenbach

Because of their low population, small countries of the world tend not to participate in international health research, preventing them from developing their research capacity and gaining access to valuable comparative health data. The recent example of Andorra and its participation in an international spinal cord injury survey (InSCI) is described here to make the argument that the needs of these small countries to improve their health research capacity, and to collect valuable population data, can be addressed through active participation in international studies without diluting the methodological rigour of these studies.

https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v58.44222

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