Main results
We included 44 trials with 2658 participants in this updated review. Overall, the use of treadmill training with body weight support did not increase the chances of walking independently compared with other physiotherapy interventions (risk difference (RD) -0.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.02 to 0.02; P = 0.94; I² = 0%). Overall, the use of treadmill training with body weight support in walking rehabilitation for patients after stroke increased the walking velocity and walking endurance significantly. The pooled mean difference (MD) (random-effects model) for walking velocity was 0.07 m/s (95% CI 0.01 to 0.12; P = 0.02; I² = 57%) and the pooled MD for walking endurance was 26.35 metres (95% CI 2.51 to 50.19; P = 0.03; I² = 60%). Overall, the use of treadmill training with body weight support in walking rehabilitation for patients after stroke did not increase the walking velocity and walking endurance at the end of scheduled follow-up significantly. The pooled MD (random-effects model) for walking velocity was 0.04 m/s (95% CI -0.06 to 0.14; P = 0.40; I² = 40%) and the pooled MD for walking endurance was 32.36 metres (95% CI -3.10 to 67.81; P = 0.07; I² = 63%). However, for ambulatory patients improvements in walking endurance lasted until the end of scheduled follow-up (MD 58.88 metres, 95% CI 29.10 to 88.66; P = 0.0001; I² = 0%). Adverse events and drop outs did not occur more frequently in people receiving treadmill training and these were not judged to be clinically serious events.