ASA and World Physiotherapy 2026: the efficacy of laser therapy and magnetotherapy in cardiovascular disease and stroke rehabilitation

To mark World Physiotherapy Day, the Vicenza-based company highlights how some of its therapeutic solutions contribute to post-stroke recovery, providing tangible support for the work of healthcare professionals.

In Italy, data from the Italian Health Examination Survey—”Progetto Cuore” (Heart Project), conducted by the ISS for the 2023–2025 period—indicate that cardiovascular diseases cause over 230,000 deaths annually. They thus represent the leading cause of death (41% of the total) among the adult population (aged 18–69) presenting three or more risk factors (hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking). Stroke is the third leading cause of death and the primary cause of disability, accounting for approximately 200,000 new cases per year (80% new episodes and 20% recurrences). Consequently, the theme of the 2026 edition of World Physiotherapy (8 September), which focuses specifically on cardiovascular diseases and stroke, is highly relevant.

The importance of post-stroke rehabilitation

According to clinical data and the estimates from the Italian Society of Neurological Rehabilitation and industry associations, 33% of patients regains full independence following a stroke, while a similar percentage (1 in 3 patients) suffers from severe, permanent disability that compromises their ability to live independently. It follows that early access to rehabilitation care and the design of a highly personalised recovery plan—incorporating both targeted physiotherapy sessions and specific therapies—are crucial for achieving the best possible recovery outcomes.

Various clinical studies have confirmed the notable effectiveness of the ASA therapeutic solutions — MLS^® Laser Therapy, Hilterapia^®, and Qs Magnetotherapy — specifically during the post-stroke rehabilitation phase. When combined with physiotherapy, MLS^® has proven valuable in treating the hemiplegic shoulder - a potential consequence of a stroke - contributing to a significant reduction in pain and muscle spasticity, improved functionality, and to restoring greater autonomy in daily activities.