Response of early aerobic interval training on stroke patient's performance

Citation:
Nahas, N. G. E., and P. D. Hayam M Sayed, "Response of early aerobic interval training on stroke patient's performance", Bull. Fac. Ph. Th. Cairo Univ., vol. 17, issue 1, pp. 86-93, 2012.

Abstract:

Influence Of Early Aerobic Interval Training On Stroke Patients' Performance
Nesreen Ghareb El-Nahas * Hayam Mahmoud Sayed**
*Physical Therapy Department for Cardiovascular / Respiratory Disorder and Geriatrics -Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, **Physical Therapy Department for Neuromuscular Disorders and its surgery-Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University
Abstract
Background: Secondary impairments of stroke patients, including muscle disuse and decreased control of respiratory muscles, often contribute to further functional declines in respiration and reduction of quality of life. Purpose of this study was to determine the influence of early aerobic interval training on ventilatory functions, walking speed, and functional mobility in Stroke Patients. Methods: Thirty stroke male patients participated in this study and were assigned into two equal groups according to duration of illness. Patients in both groups were matched in age and body mass index. Both groups received a conventional physical therapy program in addition to a moderate aerobic training program for twelve weeks, three days per week. A Cardiopulmonary exercise test unit was used for measuring the ventilatory functions. Six minutes walk test (6MWT), and Rivermead mobility index were used for assessing the walking speed, functional performance after a treadmill aerobic training respectively. Results revealed a statistical significant improvement of ventilatory functions and Rivermead index of Gr1 when compared to results of Gr2 after treatment. Conclusion Early treadmill interval training in addition to a conventional physiotherapy program may be valuable to improve ventilatory functions and functional capacity including ambulation and walking speed in stroke patients.
Key Words: Stroke; walking speed; Ventilatory functions; Aerobic interval training, exercise