Effects of functional and neuromuscular exercises in hospitalization time and pressure control of hospitalized patients

Abstract

Introduction: Functional and neuromuscular exercises are important tools in rehabilitation centers, however they are little explored in hospital protocols. Objective: To determine whether functional and neuromuscular exercises are more effective in reducing hospital stay and controlling blood pressure (BP) of hospitalized individuals than routine hospital physiotherapy. Methods: Hospitalized patients for non-cardiac illnesses and without hypertension were included, which were randomized to the control group (CG), who performed breathing exercises, active-free exercises for upper/lower limbs and walk in the hallway, or to functional rehabilitation group (FRG), which underwent neuromuscular exercises for upper/lower limbs, cycle ergometer and up/down stairs training. Both groups received intervention 2x/day. BP was measured at admission, during hospitalization and at discharge. Statistical analysis was performed by adopting a confidence interval of 95% and a 5% significance level. Results: Forty-two volunteers were evaluated, of which 26 met the eligibility criteria. However, six were excluded, four due to hospital stay less than three days and two for not completing the treatment protocol. The average age in the CG was 72±11 versus 73±8 in the FRG. There were no statistical differences in BP levels at admission. There was a reduction in the BP only in the FRG during hospitalization (p<0.01) and at discharge (p<0.01). The CG presented longer time (days) of hospitalization — 7.2±1.8 versus 5.5±1.3 of the FRG (p<0.05). Conclusion: Functional and neuromuscular exercises seem more effective in reducing the length of hospital stay and blood pressure control, of hospitalized individuals that routine hospital physiotherapy.