Exercise Recommendations for Cardiac Patients with Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain

Abstract

ABSTRACT Musculoskeletal comorbidities (MSKCs) are the most frequent cause of activity limitations in persons with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and affect as many as 70% of this population. It has been observed that over 50% of new outpatient cardiac rehabilitation participants experience some musculoskeletal pain, with back pain reported by up to 38% of cardiac rehabilitation patients. Back pain can limit performance of activities of daily living (ADLs) and reduce exercise tolerance and compliance during outpatient cardiac rehabilitation (CR). This article will describe ways to facilitate CR exercise participation in patients who have comorbid, chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNSLBP) and have been medically cleared to exercise.