A Study of Hypertension and Fitness of Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury: A Cross-Sectional Study

Healthcare, 2024 · DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12212114 · Published: October 23, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Cardiovascular Science Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Individuals with spinal cord injuries often experience a higher incidence of chronic conditions such as hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. This is due to reduced physical activity associated with their disability. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between hypertension and the fitness levels of individuals with spinal cord injuries in South Korea. The study considered differences across sexes and spinal cord injury levels. The results indicated that a lower grip strength, a lower arm curl, and a higher body mass index were associated with increased blood pressure in individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Study Duration

5 years (2018-2022)

Participants

835 individuals with spinal cord injuries aged 20–64 years

Evidence Level

Cross-Sectional Study

Key Findings

1
The prevalence of hypertension was 24.4% among the participants with spinal cord injuries, and this prevalence varied according to the spinal cord injury impairment level.
2
Lower grip strength was significantly associated with higher blood pressure, indicating that muscle strength influences hypertension in individuals with spinal cord injuries.
3
Higher body mass index (BMI) was associated with increased blood pressure, suggesting that obesity contributes to hypertension in individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Research Summary

This study investigated the relationship between blood pressure and physical fitness in adults with spinal cord injuries (SCIs) using data from Korea Paralympic Committee (KPC) fitness standard test centers. Significant differences in body fat percentage, grip strength, arm curl, shoulder back scratch, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were observed between the sexes. The study confirmed that increased fitness levels contribute to a reduction in blood pressure, indicating that physical strength is a crucial factor in managing hypertension in individuals with SCIs.

Practical Implications

Tailored Exercise Programs

Develop exercise programs tailored to individuals with SCIs to improve grip strength and muscle endurance, potentially reducing blood pressure.

Weight Management Strategies

Implement weight management strategies focusing on reducing body mass index (BMI) to help lower the risk of hypertension in individuals with SCIs.

Targeted Monitoring

Policymakers can use the study's insights to monitor the physical health of individuals with SCIs and develop targeted activity and exercise programs.

Study Limitations

1
Lack of consistency in measurement methods due to the cross-sectional design.
2
Reliance on open-source data for assessing fitness indicators.
3
Inability to account for comorbidities or exercise history among the participants.

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