Rehabilitation in Patients After Myocardial Infarction: Clinical and Social Aspects

Abstract

The aim: To assess the effects of cardiac rehabilitation on the health of myocardial infarction patients, the risk of a relapse and the possibility of restoring full physical fitness. Materials and methods: The study was conducted in a group of 40 patients after myocardial infarction treated at the Cardiac Rehabilitation Department. The subjective and objective condition of the patients was assessed. Study patients underwent physical therapy and rehabilitation over a period of 3 weeks. Results: The physical therapy and rehabilitation programme conducted in study patients resulted in an improved physical function and a weight reduction. The cholesterol and blood pressure levels were both decreased. Study patients expressed a very favourable opinion about the effects of physical therapy and rehabilitation. Conclusions: 1. Myocardial infarction is a clinical and social problem. 2.Physical therapy after myocardial infarction is one of the main elements of treatment of this disorder. 3. Physical therapy should be used more widely in coronary heart disease prevention.