Pilot and feasibility studies in stroke rehabilitation: reporting quality, progression to trials, and barriers: a scoping review.

IF 2.3 4区医学 Q1 REHABILITATION

Topics in Stroke Rehabilitation Pub Date : 2026-10-12 DOI:10.1080/10749357.2026.2746388

Maria Tereza Mota Alvarenga, Louise Ada, Augusto Boening, Lívia Cristina Guimarães Caetano, Lucas Rodrigues Nascimento, Aline Alvim Scianni

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Introduction: Pilot and feasibility studies are designed to determine whether a future trial is warranted. In stroke rehabilitation, such studies have been increasingly published over the years. To clarify how well these studies support future trials, we aimed to: (1) assess the quality of reporting of pilot and feasibility studies aimed to improve mobility (ie, walking) after stroke; (2) examine whether they progress to randomized controlled trials (RCTs); and (3) explore the barriers in following up on these studies.

Design: Scoping review.

Participants: Adults (>18 years) after stroke.

Intervention: Interventions to improve mobility (ie, walking).

Results: 28 papers were included. The quality of reporting of the studies was 6.1 out of 11 points. Only 3 out of 26 studies (12%) progressed to a definitive RCT. Of those authors who replied, the main reason for not proceeding to an RCT was lack of funding.

Conclusion: The quality of reporting of pilot and feasibility studies still needs to improve, especially when describing the methods section. In addition, these studies should be designed a priori to provide transparency in reporting and enhance value in guiding future trials.Registration: 10.17605/OSF.IO/ENJ94.

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卒中康复的试点和可行性研究：报告质量、试验进展和障碍：范围综述。

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来源期刊

Topics in Stroke Rehabilitation 医学-康复医学

CiteScore

5.10

自引率

4.50%

发文量

审稿时长

6-12 weeks

期刊介绍： Topics in Stroke Rehabilitation is the leading journal devoted to the study and dissemination of interdisciplinary, evidence-based, clinical information related to stroke rehabilitation. The journal’s scope covers physical medicine and rehabilitation, neurology, neurorehabilitation, neural engineering and therapeutics, neuropsychology and cognition, optimization of the rehabilitation system, robotics and biomechanics, pain management, nursing, physical therapy, cardiopulmonary fitness, mobility, occupational therapy, speech pathology and communication. There is a particular focus on stroke recovery, improving rehabilitation outcomes, quality of life, activities of daily living, motor control, family and care givers, and community issues. The journal reviews and reports clinical practices, clinical trials, state-of-the-art concepts, and new developments in stroke research and patient care. Both primary research papers, reviews of existing literature, and invited editorials, are included. Sharply-focused, single-issue topics, and the latest in clinical research, provide in-depth knowledge.