Are Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs Effective in Improving Aerobic Capacity for People With Transient Ischemic Attack and Stroke?: A Rapid Review and Meta-analysis.
Lucy Walton, Elisabeth Preston, Juliana De Mendonca et al.
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In 30 seconds
This rapid review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation on aerobic capacity in individuals with transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. The analysis included nine studies with 490 participants, revealing that cardiac rehabilitation improved aerobic capacity by 28 m (95% CI = 16 m to 39 m, P ≤ 0.00001).
Key findings
- Cardiac rehabilitation improved aerobic capacity by 28 m (95% CI = 16 m to 39 m, P ≤ 0.00001).
- Systolic blood pressure decreased by 18 mmHg to 5.3 mmHg (95% CI, P = 0.0003).
- Self-reported diet improved by 2.4 to 4.7 (95% CI, P ≤ 0.00001).
- Self-reported physical activity increased by 1533 to 5156 METmin/week (95% CI, P = 0.0003).
Why it matters
Improving aerobic capacity and related health metrics in patients post-TIA or stroke can enhance recovery and overall health outcomes. Understanding the role of cardiac rehabilitation is crucial for developing effective rehabilitation strategies.
What to keep in mind
The included studies were of low-moderate quality, and the evidence is limited.