Baduanjin Exercise for Patients With Chronic Heart Failure on Phase II Cardiac Rehabilitation

Baduanjin Exercise for Patients With Chronic Heart Failure on Phase II Cardiac Rehabilitation: A Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is the end stage of various kinds of cardiovascular diseases with high mortality. After a long period of medical treatment or surgical treatment, patients suffered great pain physically and mentally. How to improve the quality of life and prognosis in patients with CHF, which is a hot topic in the field of cardiac rehabilitation now. Baduanjin, as one of the traditional Chinese qigong exercises, has the features of generous stretch, soft consistency, dynamic but static, which is an appropriate movement pattern for CHF patients.

To investigate the efficacy and safety of Baduanjin exercise for patients with coronary heart disease complicated with chronic heart failure (CHF). A randomized, controlled and prospective clinical trial was designed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged from 40 to 75 years;
• Diagnosed with chronic heart failure caused by coronary heart disease;
• NYHA class I or II;
• Patients with an ejection fraction (LVEF) more than 40%;
• Participants in accordance with the guidelines define as stage II cardiac rehabilitation;
• Participants signed the informed consent freely and voluntarily.

Exclusion Criteria:

• The condition was serious or movement restrained by other diseases;
• In the acute stage of chronic heart failure;
• Participants with poorly control of blood pressure (SBP≥180mmHg or DBP≥100mmHg);
• Resting heart rate is beating over 120 beats a minute, or merged with malignant arrhythmia;
• Participants who have contraindications to cardiopulmonary test or exercise training;
• Patients who have other serious acute， chronic organic disease or mental disorders;
• Participants practiced in any kinds of traditional Chinese medicine exercises in last three months.