Big stride for stroke victims

STROKE victims who can cross their legs are more than five times more likely to survive than those who cannot, scientists have revealed.

Researchers discovered that patients who were able to cross their legs within 15 days of a severe stroke were more likely to have greater independence in daily life and fewer brain problems.

The study, by the University of Munich, formed two groups of 34 patients.

One group consisted of those capable of crossing their legs, the other without.

The study found that one person, or 9 per cent, died among those who were able to cross their legs after stroke, compared to 18 people, or 53 per cent, who died among those who could not cross their legs.