Quantifying the amount of physical rehabilitation received by individuals living with neurological conditions in the community: a scoping review

Physical rehabilitation, like physical and occupational therapy, is typically prescribed after a neurological condition diagnosis or event to help people do important tasks as independently and safely as they can. Occupational therapy focuses on improving independence in daily living by addressing both physical and mental health, while physical therapy focuses on movement and considers physical, social, and psychological aspects. Even though people spend time in physical rehabilitation during inpatient care, many still have long-term physical issues and need ongoing rehabilitation after leaving the hospital.

• 1
  Individuals with spinal cord injury and stroke received a greater number of rehabilitation hours while living in the community compared to other populations.
• 2
  The vast majority of studies reported increased hours spent in physical therapy compared to occupational therapy.
• 3
  The amount of rehabilitation received is likely insufficient, and understanding barriers to accessing resources and determining needed rehabilitation for functional improvements is critical.