Effectiveness of Core Stabilization Exercises in Post-Myocardial Infarction Rehabilitation

Thesis Abstract

The rapid increase in the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, particularly myocardial infarction, necessitates effective rehabilitation strategies that improve functional capacity and quality of life among survivors. Despite advancements in medical management, many patients experience persistent physical deconditioning, reduced exercise tolerance, and increased risk of subsequent cardiac events. Core stabilization exercises, characterized by targeted activation of deep trunk muscles, have demonstrated benefits in enhancing postural stability and muscular endurance across various populations; however, their specific efficacy in the context of post-myocardial infarction (MI) rehabilitation remains under-explored. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of core stabilization exercises in improving functional outcomes and cardiovascular health among post-MI patients, with specific objectives to assess changes in balance, muscular strength, aerobic capacity, and health-related quality of life, as well as to determine the feasibility and adherence to the exercise program. Employing a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design rooted in the biopsychosocial model of health and underpinned by the Self-Efficacy Theory, the study was conducted over a 12-week period. The research population comprised 120 post-MI patients aged 40 to 65 years, recruited from a tertiary cardiology hospital. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group receiving a supervised core stabilization exercise regimen in addition to standard cardiac rehabilitation, or a control group receiving only standard cardiac rehabilitation. Data collection instruments included the Visual Analogue Scale for pain, the Berg Balance Scale, hand-held dynamometers for trunk muscle strength, the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) for aerobic capacity, and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire for health-related quality of life. Validity and reliability of these instruments were established through pilot testing and consultation with clinical physiotherapists. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics to characterize the sample, followed by paired t-tests and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) to evaluate pre- and post-intervention differences within and between groups. Multiple regression analysis was employed to determine predictors of functional improvement. Qualitative feedback on adherence and perceived benefits was analyzed thematically. It is anticipated that the findings will reveal significant improvements in balance, muscular strength, aerobic capacity, and quality of life in the intervention group compared to controls, with adherence rates exceeding 85% and minimal adverse events. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing empirical evidence on the role of core stabilization exercises as an adjunct therapy in cardiac rehabilitation tailored for post-MI patients. By integrating behavioral and physiological frameworks, the research offers a comprehensive understanding of how targeted core training influences cardiovascular health and functional recovery. These results will inform clinical practice guidelines, emphasizing the inclusion of specific core strengthening protocols in standard post-MI rehabilitation programs. The main conclusion underscores the potential of core stabilization exercises to enhance functional and cardiovascular outcomes in post-MI rehabilitation, advocating for their integration into multidisciplinary cardiac care. It is recommended that future research explore long-term adherence and the impact of such exercises on recurrence rates and mortality, while also investigating differential effects across age groups and comorbidity profiles. Overall, this study aims to bridge the gap between physiotherapeutic interventions and holistic cardiac recovery strategies, ultimately contributing to improved rehabilitation efficacy and patient-centered outcomes in cardiovascular health management.