Arm Exercises Improve Walking Ability Following a Stroke

Arm training exercises appear to improve walking ability months and even years after having a stroke. In this study, investigators found that stroke participants who performed 30 minutes of moderate-intensity arm cycling training sessions three times per week for five weeks experienced significant improvements in their walking ability. The researchers explain that the nerves in the arms activate and adapt to improve function of the spinal cord in other areas of the body, including the legs. The results could have a significant impact on stroke rehabilitation. Journal of Neurophysiology, December 2017