Endurance training and improved aerobic capacity after traumatic brain injury

K. A. Mossberg, B. E. Masel

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

    1 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of an endurance training program in patients who had sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and were in the post-acute recovery phase. Methods: Thirteen patients gave written consent. Inclusion criteria were: ability to ambulate safely on a treadmill at a minimal speed of 1.6kph (1.0mph), no overt cardiovascular disease, ability to follow 2-step commands, and compliance with the expired gas collection apparatus. A modified Balke protocol was used. Speed was gradually increased to the safest possible speed in the first two minutes at 1% incline. Incline was then increased 2% per minute until two of three peak criteria (O 2 plateau, HR >90% age-predicted max, respiratory exchange ratio (RER) >1.15) or ambulation became unsafe. Multivariate comparisons were performed (alpha=0.05). Results: Peak O 2 improved (23.1sd7.6 vs 30.3sd6.9 mL/min/kg) (p<0.01). Peak HR and RER did not change. Submaximal ventilatory equivalents decreased. Conclusions: Despite the cognitive and behavioral challenges, patients were found to be compliant with properly prescribed aerobic exercise. Further randomized controlled trials are warranted in this population. TBI is a chronic disease and increased physical activity should be encouraged early in the rehabilitation process.

    Original languageEnglish (US)
    Title of host publicationRehabilitation
    Subtitle of host publicationMobility, Exercise and Sports. 4th International State-of-theArt Congress
    EditorsL.H.V. van der Woude, S. de Groot, F.J. Hettinga, F. Hoekstra, K.E. Bijker, T.W.J. Janssen, J.H.P. Houdijk, R. Dekker, P.C.T. van Aanholt
    Pages276-278
    Number of pages3
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 2010

    Publication series

    NameAssistive Technology Research Series
    Volume26
    ISSN (Print)1383-813X
    ISSN (Electronic)1879-8071

    Keywords

    • cardiorespiratory fitness
    • head injury
    • oxygen consumption

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Medicine (miscellaneous)
    • Engineering (miscellaneous)

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