The development of health enhancing exercise groups adapted for hemiplegic patients: a pilot study

Abstract

Objectives:

The aim of this pilot study was to examine 1) how different components of health related fitness developed in patients participating in exercise groups, 2) how the patients experience their health and physical activity level before and after the intervention and then six months later, and 3) whether the patients could find a convenient way for health enhancing exercise, either individually or in a group.

Study design:

The pilot group consisted of five patients, one male and four females with mean age 51 years. One of the patients had aphasia and three had other cognitive disorders. All participants were 2–6 years post a stroke. Their functional independence rate was 90–110 FIM and spasticity was measured 1–3 on Ashworth scale. Participation in the exercise group was included in the written rehabilitation plan of each patient and each of them had a personal assistant helping in the group. The patients underwent medical examination prior to and after the intervention. The tests for health related fitness (muscle performance tests, balance test, timed walking test, BMI) FIM, Ashworth and questionnaires on self-reported health and physical activity were collected immediately prior to and after the intervention and then six months later. The group met 24 times in four months, three times a week, 60 minutes at a time. The intensity of exercising was 55–70% of max HR. Each patient kept a diary on exercising. Exercising consisted of circuit training type of conditioning, outing, adapted physical activities , and NLP. The effects were followed up by measuring steady state, exercise, and recovery pulse, RPE , and blood pressure. A case study method was introduced.

Results and coclusions:

The best results were scored on muscle endurance / performance and timed walking. Exercising in the group was motivating and rewarding, and it enhanced the quality of every day life. A health enhancing exercise group is a remarkable alternative or an addition worth attention to individual therapy on hemiplegic patients in post-acute stages of recovery.