A new study has found walking can help improve the overall mobility of stroke patients.

Researchers with the Cochrane review followed the exercise regimes of more than 1,100 recent stroke sufferers and focused on how physical activity affected their mortality, dependence or disability. They found that subjects who took part in cardio-respiratory exercise, like walking, were more mobile overall.

“The most consistent pattern within our data related to cardio-respiratory training benefiting walking, in terms of maximum walking speed, comfortable walking speed, walking tolerance and reliance on other people for ambulation,” said lead author Dr. David Saunders.

Stroke often causes weakness or paralysis, muscle stiffness, balance problems and fatigue, all of which can make it difficult to move easily.
According to the National Stroke Association, about 4 million Americans live with the after-effects of stroke.

There are several health resources that can help prevent cardiovascular disease, according to the Mayo Clinic. They include controlling hypertension and diabetes, maintaining a healthy weight by following a proper diet, reducing stress and exercising regularly.