Effect of Isometric Handgrip Exercises on Blood Pressure of Hypertensive Adults

Effect of Isometric Handgrip Exercises on Blood Pressure of Hypertensive Adults

This study is designed to determine the effects of isometric handgrip exercises as compared to aerobic exercises in the hypertensive population, specifically in pre-hypertensives and those with hypertension stage I who are not taking pharmacological treatment. This exercise is designed as part of lifestyle modification for these patients and if proven effective, it can provide an easier to perform exercise regimen as an alternative to be incorporated in the exercise plan of patients who have difficulty in performing aerobic exercises because of musculoskeletal concerns.

Hypertension (HTN) is a significant public health problem, with an increasing worldwide prevalence. The disease has an impact on reducing the quality of life (QOL) and can be life-threatening if not treated early. It is considered the major risk factor for cardiovascular and renal diseases. Complications of hypertension can lead to a variety of serious diseases like stroke, heart attack, and even cardiac and renal failure. Non-pharmacological management via lifestyle modification is focused in the initial stages of HTN through the reduction in alcohol consumption, cessation of tobacco smoking, maintenance of body weight, improvements in nutrition, and increases in physical activity. Physical activity improves health status and prevents the complications of hypertension like stroke and heart failure.

Typically, aerobic exercises in the form of walking and jogging are advised as part of lifestyle modification. effectiveness of resistance training is also worked upon. A relatively newer approach in the form of Isometric Hand Grip exercises (IHG) is also under research because it can serve as a useful alternative for patients who cannot perform aerobic exercises because of musculoskeletal conditions. This study is targeted to assess the effects of IHG exercises, aerobic training, both aerobic and IHG training as well as sham IHG treatment for a comprehensive assessment of effects of IHG training.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Pre-hypertension (systolic BP 120-139 mmHg and diastolic BP<80) or stage I hypertensive patients (systolic BP 140-159 mmHg and diastolic BP 90-99mm Hg.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients who are taking antihypertensive agents
• Malignant hypertension
• Physical limitation preventing IHG training (e.g., missing arm, severe hand arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or having a musculoskeletal disorder affecting the upper limb.
• Active systemic illness that restricts exercise
• People doing exercise regularly
• Any other cardiopulmonary, metabolic, neurological, or psychiatric illness.