Impact of Physiotherapy on Serum CRP Level in Post-Stroke Patients: A Marker of Recovery

Khaista Bacha; Aizaz Ullah Khan; Sana Hoor; Zahoor Ahmad; Tahir Khan

doi:10.70749/ijbr.v3i4.1204

Authors

Khaista Bacha Abasyn University Peshawar, KP, Pakistan.
Aizaz Ullah Khan Faculty of Allied Health Science. University of Swat, Main Campus, Charbagh, Swat, Malakand, KP, Pakistan.
Sana Hoor Riphah International University, Malkand Campus, KP, Pakistan.
Zahoor Ahmad Riphah International University, Malkand Campus, KP, Pakistan.
Tahir Khan Riphah International University, Malkand Campus, KP, Pakistan.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70749/ijbr.v3i4.1204

Keywords:

Post-stroke Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy, CRP, Inflammation, Motor Recovery, Functional Independence

Abstract

Systemic inflammation, as reflected by elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, is associated with poor outcomes in stroke recovery. Physiotherapy is a cornerstone of post-stroke rehabilitation, but its effect on inflammatory biomarkers such as CRP remains underexplored. This study investigates the impact of structured physiotherapy on serum CRP levels in post-stroke patients. Methods: A prospective, interventional study was conducted at Pak-Medical Centre, Timergara. One hundred post-stroke patients were randomly assigned to either a physiotherapy group (n=50), receiving structured rehabilitation for 12 weeks, or a control group (n=50), receiving standard care. Serum CRP levels were measured at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks using high-sensitivity assays. Functional recovery was assessed using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) and Modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Results: The physiotherapy group exhibited a significant reduction in serum CRP levels at 6 and 12 weeks (p < 0.001), along with marked improvements in FMA and mRS scores compared to the control group. A positive correlation was observed between CRP reduction and functional recovery, suggesting a potential mechanistic link. Conclusion: Structured physiotherapy significantly reduces systemic inflammation and improves motor and functional outcomes in post-stroke patients. CRP may serve as a useful biomarker for monitoring rehabilitation efficacy. These findings support the integration of physiotherapy into routine post-stroke care protocols.

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