Contextualization of a physiotherapy clinical practice guideline for stroke rehabilitation in Kenya

Abstract

Stroke is the third leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Eighty five per cent of strokes occur in developing countries, and it is estimated that the prevalence will increase in future. Evidence based rehabilitation programs inherent in clinical practice guidelines has the potential to improves functional activities, and participation. However Kenya does not have this guideline. Most clinical guidelines are developed in the western world, and reflect developed world healthcare systems and resources that are not always appropriate to developing nations. Likewise, guidelines are costly to produce. Kenya lacks the resources and the expertise for de novo guideline development. It is therefore appropriate and cost effective to contextualise the available high quality recommendations.