Physical activity after myocardial infarction

Abstract

Experimental and clinical research has provided substantial knowledge of the potential benefits and risks associated with the performance of physical activity by patients with uncomplicated myocardial infarction. This knowledge has resulted in the earlier mobilization, a reduction in length of hospitalization, an increase in physical working capacity and a more successful return to work of many patients. These improvements have been associated with a variety of physiologic and psychological changes produced by increased activity during each stage of the patient's recovery. During hospitalization, changes in posture and low intensity activity minimize the cardiovascular and psychological complications caused by prolonged bed rest. After hospitalization, the most valuable benefit of regularly performed exercise appears to be a reduction in myocardial oxygen demand at rest and during submaximal exertion. The unique contribution of increased physical activity to reducing the frequency and severity of reinfarction has not been adequately established but, when combined with other behavior designed to reduce risk factors, the preliminary results are favorable. For these benefits to be obtained without undue risk, exercise for the postmyocardial infarction patient needs to be individually prescribed and periodically reevaluated.