Open AccessEffect of exercise on calf muscle pump function in patients with chronic venous disease
Author(s) -
Yang D.,
Vandongen Y. K.,
Stacey M. C.
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
british journal of surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.202
H-Index - 201
eISSN - 1365-2168
pISSN - 0007-1323
DOI - 10.1046/j.1365-2168.1999.00993.x
Subject(s) - medicine , calf muscle , plethysmograph , cardiology , physical therapy
Background: Musculoskeletal dysfunction may be associated with poor calf muscle pump function in patients with chronic venous ulceration. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of physical exercise on calf muscle pump function. Methods: Twenty patients were recruited into a 6‐week intensive exercise programme. Calf muscle function and calf muscle pump function were assessed using an isokinetic device and air plethysmography respectively, before and after the exercise programme. Results: There was significant improvement in calf muscle pump function, measured as increased ejection fraction and decreased residual fraction ( P < 0·05); however, venous reflux was not altered ( P > 0·05). Calf muscle strength and endurance parameters all increased, but not significantly ( P > 0·05). Conclusion: Poor calf muscle pump function in patients with chronic venous ulceration can be improved by physical exercise. © 1999 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd