Article

Firstly, to examine whether heart rate (HR) can be predicted based on
the Borg-scale for perceived exertion in patients with chronic low back pain
(CLBP) and secondly, to assess changes in HR, Borg-scores and workload to study
the relevance of a stepwise increase of workload based on the Borg-score and HR.
METHODS: Ninety-nine patients with CLBP and a mean disability-score (Roland
Morris Disability Questionnaire) of 13.8 (SD = 3.7) participated in a 10-week
aerobic training programme (20 min, 3 times/week). HR, ratings of perceived
exertion (RPE), and workload were monitored. Prior to treatment, patients
completed questionnaires on pain, disability, and several psychological factors
(catastrophizing, kinesiophobia, and depression).
RESULTS: The original
Borg-equation (i.e. 'HR = Borg x 10') appears accurate in predicting HR on a
group-level. Pain-related and psychological factors were not significantly
related to the accuracy of the Borg equation. Whereas mean workload increased
significantly (from 93.8 (SD = 29.9) to 129.5 W (SD = 39.7), p < 0.001)
throughout the training programme, HR increased only slightly (from 130.2 (SD =
13.5) to 139.2 (SD = 13.9) bpm; p < 0.001) and Borg-scores remained stable (from
13.2 (SD = 1.9) to 13.3 (SD = 1.8); p = 0.48). CONCLUSIONS: The capability of the
Borg-scale to accurately predict HR appears moderate. However combined with
measuring HR, it results in a relevant and efficient method for training CLBP
patients in clinical practice.

Langue : ANGLAIS