IMPACT OF A CARDIOVASCULAR REHABILITATION PROGRAM IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SYSTEMIC ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION
Keywords: Cardiac Rehabilitation, Arterial Hypertension, Physical Exercise.
Introduction: Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) is the main modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and premature death. Effective control of SAH requires comprehensive monitoring of the individual in the multidisciplinary Health Network, and the patient's understanding and active participation in their health condition and treatment. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of a cardiovascular rehabilitation program on the management of SAH with an emphasis on non-pharmacological intervention measures. Methods: This is an analytical, experimental, clinical trial-type study, carried out at the Human Motricity and Physiology Laboratory of the Faculty of Health Sciences of Trairi (FACISA). The variables assessed were functional and physical capacity, through the six-minute walk test, the six-minute step test and the Human Activity Profile and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short version questionnaires. The program consisted of aerobic and resistance exercises prescribed individually, supervised and with load progression for 8 weeks. Descriptive statistical analysis in mean, standard deviation, absolute and relative frequencies. And, to compare data before and after the program, the Student t Test or Wilcoxon test were used for paired measurements. To assume statistical significance, an estimated value of p was <0.05. Results: 15 participants diagnosed with Systemic Arterial Hypertension were included, with a mean age of 58.5+8.7 years. There was a significant increase in the % predicted value of the walking test, 84.1±11.8% vs. 99± 15.7% (Δ=15.7±13.2%), after the exercises, p<0.0005, as well as a significant increase in the % of the predicted value of the step test, 91.8±29 .5% vs. 115.3±37.1% (Δ=23.5±15.7%), after exercise, p<0.0001. Furthermore, there was an improvement in peripheral muscle strength in shoulder flexion, joint and knee extension in the studied sample. Conclusions: The results of the present study allow us to conclude that a combined exercise program (aerobic exercises + resistance exercises), prescribed individually, supervised and in groups, lasting 8 consecutive weeks, and weekly progression is capable of improving functional and physical capacity, peripheral muscle strength of hypertensive individuals.