The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between muscle strength, functional capacity and ADLs in individuals with ACHD.
A cross-sectional study design was used. The study included 60 individuals with ACHD, aged between 18-45 years (mean age: 23.52±6.98 years). The complexity of the disease was classified as mild, moderate and complex according to the AHA/ACC guideline criteria. Peripheral muscle strength, including quadriceps and hand grip, was assessed using a digital dynamometer. Functional capacity was evaluated with the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and activities of daily living were assessed using the Glittre ADLs Test. (clinical trial number: NCT05824650).
Among the patients, 10% had mild, 61.66% had moderate, and 28.34% had complex disease complexity. The walking distance in the 6 MWT was significantly correlated with the dominant quadriceps muscle strength (r=0.358, p=0.006), hand grip strength (r=0.480, p0.0001), and the duration of the Glittre ADLs Test (r=-0.345, p=0.023). The duration of the Glittre ADLs test was significantly correlated with the dominant knee extensor muscle strength (r=-0.276, p=0.036) and hand grip strength (r=-0.345, p=0.007).
The majority of the included patients were classified as having moderate complexity. In individuals with ACHD, functional capacity, muscle strength, and ADLs were found to be related.
The early assessment of functional capacity, muscle strength and ADLs in individuals with ACHD plays a crucial role in identifying disease-related impairments and effective management. Individualized physiotherapy and rehabilitation approaches including aerobic and resistance exercise training can reduce morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs in individuals with ACHD.
exercise capacity
muscle strength
