European journal of physical and rehabilitation medicine
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Eur J Phys Rehabil Med · Jun 2018
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyHigh-intensity treadmill training improves gait ability, VO2peak and cost of walking in stroke survivors: preliminary results of a pilot randomized controlled trial.
Stroke is a major cause of death and long-term disability across the globe. Previous studies have demonstrated the trainability of stroke survivors and documented beneficial effects of aerobic exercises on cardiovascular fitness and gait ability. ⋯ Chronic stroke survivors should be encouraged to engage regular aerobic treadmill training at medium/high intensity. HITT is safe and feasible and has positive effects on gait ability, cardiovascular fitness and cost of walking in subjects with stroke in chronic phase.
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Eur J Phys Rehabil Med · Jun 2018
Randomized Controlled TrialEffects of home-based neuromuscular electrical stimulation in severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: a randomized controlled clinical trial.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients experience a sustained deterioration of several capacities. Those with severe COPD undergo a considerable decline in their physical and functional capacities, but pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is used to reduce the weakness of such patients. To date, neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) has been used in acute COPD patients but NMES superimposed onto voluntary muscular contraction has not been tested in COPD patients. ⋯ A home-based pulmonary rehabilitation program including controlled breathing training, and NMES superimposed onto voluntary muscle contraction significantly improves cardiorespiratory performance and functionality in stable COPD patients.