As physical therapists, our primary goal is to enhance the well-being of our patients through targeted exercises and therapeutic interventions. One crucial aspect often overlooked in the rehabilitation process is monitoring blood pressure after exercise.
(In case you missed it, make sure to check out our first Blog post on this topic)
Understanding the physiological response to activity can provide valuable insights into a patient’s cardiovascular health and guide our approach to therapy.
Pre- and Post-Exercise Blood Pressure Monitoring
Before embarking on any exercise program, it is imperative to assess a patient’s baseline blood pressure. This baseline measurement serves as a reference point for evaluating the physiological impact of physical activity.
While exercise is generally beneficial for cardiovascular health, it can also elicit varied responses in blood pressure, making routine monitoring essential.
During Exercise:
During physical activity, it’s expected that systolic blood pressure will rise due to the increased demand for oxygen and nutrients by the working muscles.
On the other hand, diastolic blood pressure may either show a slight increase or remain relatively stable.
This dynamic interaction between systolic and diastolic pressures is a normal response to exercise.
Blood Pressure After Exercise: “Good” vs. “Bad” Responses
Systolic Blood Pressure:
A “good” response post-exercise involves a gradual decrease in systolic blood pressure back toward baseline levels. This signifies that the cardiovascular system is efficiently returning to its resting state. However, a “bad” response is indicated if systolic blood pressure remains significantly elevated or, more critically, if it surpasses the threshold of 250 mmHg. In such cases, it is crucial to terminate exercise immediately to prevent potential cardiovascular complications.
Diastolic Blood Pressure:
For diastolic blood pressure, a “good” response involves either a slight increase or stability. However, a “bad” response occurs if diastolic blood pressure rises above 115 mmHg or drops by more than 10 points. Elevated diastolic pressures could indicate inadequate coronary perfusion, while a substantial drop may suggest a compromised cardiovascular response.
Putting It To Work
Incorporating blood pressure monitoring into our practice as physical therapists adds an extra layer of safety and precision to exercise prescription. Recognizing the signs of a “bad” response allows us to promptly modify or terminate exercise, ensuring the well-being of our patients.
By integrating pre- and post-exercise blood pressure assessments, we can tailor rehabilitation programs that not only address musculoskeletal issues but also prioritize cardiovascular health.
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