Bartolo, Pamela
A modified Philadelphia Panel rating method to evaluate the evidence supporting the use of therapeutic exercise interventions in patients with congestive heart failure was under taken. Studies including the following outcomes: maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), left ventricular function, peak lactate levels, dyspnoea, work capacity, muscle strength and muscle endurance were considered for inclusion in this analysis.
This review found good evidence to support the use of aerobic exercise (bicycle ergometer) to increase VO2max, work capacity and left ventricular function and to decrease dyspnoea in patients with congestive heart failure. Good evidence was also found to support the inclusion progressive resistance exercise training of the large muscle groups in patients with congestive heart failure. Resistance exercise was shown to improve left ventricular function, peak lactate levels, muscle strength and muscle endurance. The findings of this review were applicable to patients with NYHA class I – III congestive heart failure only.
Journal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention 2007; 27: 368 – 375