Standardisation in Acute Stroke Research: A Scoping Review of Upper Limb Assessments Against SRRR Benchmarks
Abstract
Background
Stroke remains a leading global cause of long-term disability, with upper limb (UL) impairments affecting nearly two-thirds of survivors. The acute phase of stroke (1–7 days) is a critical window for understanding recovery mechanisms and evaluating interventions. To address inconsistencies in assessment and methodological approaches, the Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Roundtable (SRRR) has issued guidelines promoting standardisation across stroke research.
Objective
This scoping review examines how current acute stroke studies assessing UL sensorimotor capacity align with SRRR recommendations, particularly regarding measurement tools, follow-up protocols, and participant demographics.
Methods
Following the Joanna Briggs Institute and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we systematically searched seven databases for English-language, primary research studies published between August 2017 and May 2025. Studies included adults with stroke who underwent UL assessment within the acute phase. Data were extracted on clinical, structural, and functional assessments, as well as follow-up timing and study demographics. Of 2,485 screened articles, 106 met the inclusion criteria.
Results
While global assessments (e.g., NIHSS) and impairment-level UL assessments (e.g., FMA-UE) were widely used, activity-level tools (e.g., ARAT) and sensory measures were underrepresented. Structural brain imaging was common, though often used only diagnostically, while functional brain imaging and multimodal approaches were rare. Follow-up timing varied, with limited long-term tracking. Demographic reporting was inconsistent, with underrepresentation of young adults and women.
Conclusion
Despite progress, significant gaps remain in the standardisation and comprehensiveness of UL assessment in acute stroke research. Future studies should better align with SRRR recommendations to improve data comparability and scientific rigour.
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