Case Report: Whole-body electrical muscle stimulation as an adjunctive tool in cardiac rehabilitation of a patient with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction - Report - MDSpire
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Case Report: Whole-body electrical muscle stimulation as an adjunctive tool in cardiac rehabilitation of a patient with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction
Clinical Report: Utilizing Whole-Body Electrical Muscle Stimulation in Cardiac Rehab
Overview
This case study reports on the use of whole-body electrical muscle stimulation (WB-EMS) as an adjunct to standard cardiac rehabilitation in a 73-year-old male with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction.
Background
Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, with exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) being a recommended intervention. However, many patients, especially the elderly and frail, struggle to engage in conventional exercise programs. Whole-body electrical muscle stimulation (WB-EMS) may offer a novel approach to enhance rehabilitation outcomes in this population, although further evidence is needed.
Data Highlights
Outcome Measure
Baseline
Post-Intervention
Change
LVEF
27%
54%
+27%
Peak Workload (W)
66
97
+31
6-Minute Walk Test (m)
390
590
+200
Peak Oxygen Uptake (mL/min/kg)
17.42
19.02
+1.60
EQ-5D-5L VAS
60
90
+30
Key Findings
WB-EMS was integrated into a standard cardiac rehabilitation program.
Left ventricular ejection fraction improved from 27% to 54% after the intervention.
Functional capacity increased, with a 51% improvement in the six-minute walk test distance.
Quality of life, as measured by the EQ-5D-5L visual analogue scale, improved from 60 to 90.
Biomarkers remained within acceptable safety limits throughout the intervention.
Clinical Implications
Further research is needed to confirm these results in larger, randomized trials.
Conclusion
This case study reports on the use of WB-EMS in enhancing cardiac rehabilitation outcomes in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction.
