Article

In patients with chronic pain, aerobic deconditioning can explain
part of observed disability and disadvantage. The objective of the present study
was to assess the change in VO(2)max after a four-week exercise rehabilitation
programme in this population. METHODS: In a prospective study, 121 patients
underwent a cycle ergometer exercise tolerance test with VO(2)max measurement
before and after a four-week exercise rehabilitation programme (which included
aerobic training, muscle strengthening, occupational therapy and stretching).
RESULTS: We observed a statistically significant increase in VO(2)max (P=0.03)
and an improvement in the patients' distribution according to the Shvartz fitness
classification after rehabilitation. DISCUSSION: The four-week exercise
rehabilitation program was associated with an improvement in aerobic capacities
in patients with chronic pain. However, in all but one of the 121 patients, the
VO(2)max value at the end of the program was below average for gender and age.
Maintenance of aerobic training after the end of a rehabilitation programme is
essential.
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Langue : ANGLAIS ; FRANCAIS