Morgan Walker, B.S., ACSM EP-C
Patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) suffer from a condition in which the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to accommodate metabolic requirements of organs and tissues.1 CHF can result from systolic dysfunction of the left ventricle (LV) which decreases ejection fraction (volume of blood per minute pumped into circulation by the LV) or diastolic LV dysfunction that increases resistance to filling the LV1. There is high risk when exercising this type of client, but in the correct circumstances, it preserves quality of life. Proper education on the condition and its FITT principle is paramount in a safe and effective program for the CHF sufferer.
Patients with CHF present two key signs and symptoms1:
- Exercise intolerance- manifested by fatigue and dyspnea (shortness of breath)
- Fluid retention- evidenced by peripheral edema and/or acute weight gain
Each of these present their own issues when paired with exercise. It is extremely important for the exercise physiologist to discern between what is normal, and what is dangerous and be able to stop exercise before exacerbation of the condition.
Once the risk-reward ratio for the patient has been considered to indicate exercise, cardiorespiratory endurance training is the obvious first strategy for managing CHF.1 Range of motion and resistance training for those with stable CHF can also be incorporated at a safe progression once exercise tolerance is improved. See table below for the CHF FITT principle.
Adapted Table from p 2711
Exercise
|
Frequency
|
Intensity
|
Time
|
Type
|
Aerobic
|
4-5 sessions/wk
|
11-14 on RPE scale
60-75% HRR
|
40+ min, using interval training as needed
|
Treadmill, leg ergometer, arm ergometer
|
Resistance
|
1-2 session/wk
|
11-14 on RPE scale
|
1x12-15 reps per muscle group
|
Fixed machines, bands, dumbbells
|
Range of motion
|
Pre and post session
|
Static stretching, safe intensity for client
|
5-10 total minutes pre and post session, 10-30 second intervals devoted to large muscle groups and joints
|
Facilitated, passive
|
RPE: rate of perceived exertion, HRR: heart rate reserve
Despite a safe exercise program, CHF is a condition that must be predominately managed with prescription drugs. Ensuring that the client has taken all doses as prescribed before, during and after exercise is one of the obligations of the exercise physiologist. If the client is not compliant with medications, it could be life threatening; exercise should cease immediately and the proper intervention should be sought. Constant monitoring of vitals and condition signs and symptoms are important for the health of these clients. Electrocardiogram may be helpful in routine supervision of the condition.
References
Great insight!
ReplyDelete