Article

Information concerning exercise tolerance and aerobic capacity is
imperative for generating effective and safe exercise programs. However, for
older people with a lower-limb amputation, a standard exercise test is not
available. The primary aim of the present study was to determine
whether a graded 1-legged peak exercise test is feasible and provides a valid
assessment of peak aerobic capacity in older people walking with a lower-limb
prosthesis. DESIGN: This was a quasi-experimental case-control study. METHODS: A
total of 36 older people with a lower-limb prosthesis and 21 people who were
able-bodied (controls) (overall mean age=61.7 years, SD=6.1) performed a
discontinuous graded 1-legged exercise test. The peak respiratory exchange ratio
was used as an indicator of maximal effort. The controls performed an additional
2-legged exercise test to provide insight into differences between the testing
modes. RESULTS: All participants were able to perform the exercise test.
Electrocardiographic tracings and blood pressure were adequately monitored. The
controls and the people with a lower-limb amputation were able to stress the
cardiovascular system to a similar extent. Analyses of construct validity
revealed that the peak aerobic capacity measured with the 1-legged exercise test
was able to distinguish between participants on the basis of age, body mass
index, and sex to a similar extent as the conventional 2-legged exercise test.
LIMITATIONS: The results can be generalized only to people who are able to
ambulate with their prosthesis. CONCLUSIONS: The graded 1-legged exercise test
was feasible and provided a valid assessment of peak aerobic capacity and
exercise tolerance in older people walking with a lower-limb prosthesis.

Langue : ANGLAIS