The effect of a cardiac rehabilitation program on the joints and spine: subjective evaluation.

To examine the effects of a cardiac rehabilitation exercise program on the joints of patients just recovered from a coronary disease episode, a questionnaire was distributed to such patients entering the program. Of 171 patients who completed the questionnaire, 76 indicated they had pain in some joints, most frequently in the back. Sixty-six patients were available to complete follow-up questions after participating in the exercise program for a minimum of 3 months. Pain, or lack thereof, remained unchanged in 35 participants. A decrease in pain was noted by 27, and more pain by 4.