Effectiveness of early mobilization in enhancing cardiovascular fitness after myocardial infarction: a randomized pilot study

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effectiveness of early mobilization exercises combined with breathing techniques in improving cardiovascular fitness, quality of life, and functional recovery in patients following myocardial infarction (MI), compared with standard postoperative care. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 patients aged 18–80 years who had undergone CABG or PCI following myocardial infarction were included in this randomized pilot study and allocated to two groups of 15 participants each (group A: 10 men and 5 women; group B: 10 men and 5 women). All participants were hemodynamically stable. The early mobilization protocol included graded physical activities such as bed mobility, sitting, standing, ambulation within the ward, and light limb exercises performed under the supervision of a physiotherapist. The intervention was conducted for two weeks, with 30-minute sessions five days per week. Functional capacity was assessed using the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and perceived exertion using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Pre-test and post-test assessments were performed on postoperative days 7 and 30, respectively, and outcomes were compared between the intervention and control groups. Results: Patients who participated in early mobilization showed significant improvements in 6MWT distance and VAS scores compared with the control group. Conclusions: Early mobilization appears to be an effective intervention for improving cardiovascular fitness and functional capacity following myocardial infarction. Larger randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings and establish standardized rehabilitation protocols.