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[Coronary circulation and metabolic function in endurance trained paraplegics]
A Schmid1, M Huonker, J F Aramendi
1Rehabilitative und Präventive Sportmedizin, Medizinische Universitätsklinik Freiburg.
Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|October 25, 1996
Summary
Physical activity in paraplegics improves cardiovascular and metabolic function, though cardiac dimensions remain smaller than in trained athletes. Active individuals demonstrate physiological responses to exercise.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular physiology
- Exercise science
- Sports medicine for disabilities
Context:
- Paraplegia significantly impacts cardiovascular dimensions and function.
- Understanding the physiological adaptations to exercise in individuals with spinal cord injuries is crucial.
- Limited research exists on the long-term effects of physical activity on cardiovascular health in paraplegics.
Purpose:
- To investigate the effects of graded arm crank training on pulmonary, cardiovascular, and metabolic activity in paraplegics.
- To compare the physiological responses to exercise in paraplegics with those of trained healthy controls.
Summary:
- Eight male paraplegics underwent graded arm crank training, with measurements of left ventricular volume (LVV), stroke volume (SV), and heart rate (HR).
- Paraplegics exhibited smaller LVV and SV compared to controls, but comparable wall thickness.
- While maximal exercise capacity was lower, heart rate responses during exercise were similar between groups, indicating physiological cardiovascular and metabolic reactions.
Impact:
- Physical activity can lead to comparable exercise results in paraplegics versus untrained healthy individuals.
- Long-term exercise demonstrates beneficial physiological cardiovascular and metabolic adaptations in paraplegics.
- This study highlights the importance of tailored exercise programs for improving the health of individuals with paraplegia.