Sixteen RCTs (1,699 participants) were included in the review. The mean PEDro quality score was 6.5 (range 4 to 8).
Compared with standard physical therapy, extra physical therapy significantly reduced length of stay (SMD -0.22, 95% CI -0.39 to -0.05; I2=32%, eight RCTs) and improved walking ability (SMD 0.37, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.69; I2=71%, seven RCTs), activity (SMD 0.22, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.37; I2=4%, nine RCTs) and quality of life (SMD 0.48, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.68; I2=0%, four RCTs). There were no statistically significant differences in self-care.
Subgroup analyses were reported.