Lotte Verkuijlen

Lotte Verkuijlen

orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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3 February 2026 in Healthcare
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
KKKlaske Van Kammen
Klaske Van Kammen
LVLotte Verkuijlen
Lotte Verkuijlen
ANAna Beatriz Nasser
Ana Beatriz Nasser
RDRienk Dekker
Rienk Dekker
LKLeonie A. Krops
Leonie A. Krops
BSBregje Seves
Bregje Seves
Background: This systematic review aims to identify modifiable and non-modifiable predictors of exercise capacity (VO2peak level or change) in stroke survivors. These insights may further optimize rehabilitation treatment and improve long-term health outcomes. Methods: PubMed (PubMed.gov), EMBASE (Elsevier), CINAHL (EBSCO), and Web of Science (Clarivate) were searched (last search on 7 October 2025). Inclusion criteria were: (1) adults (>18 years) who survived a stroke (ischemic and hemorrhagic), (2) outcome was a measurement of maximum exercise capacity (VO2peak) measured with CPET (or equivalent), (3) predictors of exercise capacity were measured (e.g., personal factors, disease-related factors, components of rehabilitation), (4) predictors of exercise capacity were analyzed in multivariate regression models, (5) primary research, and (6) full-text available. During the data extraction phase, predictors were categorized into modifiable and non-modifiable predictors. Risk of bias was assessed with the McMaster Critical Review Form for Quantitative Studies. Results: Of 919 unique articles, seventeen were included. Modifiable factors such as BMI (4/8 articles) and fat mass (1/1), lower limb strength (3/3), cardiorespiratory fitness (e.g., baseline VO2peak (2/4)), training intensity (2/2) and perceived fatigue (1/1) significantly predicted VO2peak (level or change). Significant non-modifiable predictors were age (3/11), sex (1/8), diabetes (1/2), and stroke-specific (4/8) factors. Conclusions: This systematic review highlights the significant role of modifiable and non-modifiable predictors in optimizing exercise capacity (VO2peak) for stroke survivors. In addition, considering modifiable and non-modifiable predictors allows for more personalized treatment planning. The findings can guide healthcare professionals in tailoring rehabilitation programs, though further research is needed to develop a comprehensive prediction model.