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Exercise as Medicine: Evaluation and Prescription for Adults with Congenital Heart Disease

  • Congenital Heart Disease (RA Krasuski and G Fleming, Section Editors)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Understanding exercise physiology as it relates to adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) can be complex. Here we review fundamental physiologic principles and provide a framework for application to the unique ACHD patient population.

Recent Findings

ACHD exercise participation has changed dramatically in the last 50 years. A modern approach focuses on exercise principles and individual anatomic and physiologic considerations. With an evolving better understanding of ACHD exercise physiology, we can strategize plans for patients to participate in dynamic and static exercises. Newly developed technologies including wearable devices provide additive information for ACHD providers for further assessment and monitoring.

Summary

Preparation and assessment for ACHD patients prior to exercise require a thoughtful, personalized approach. Exercise prescriptions can be formulated to adequately meet the needs of our patients.

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Funding

David Leone reports Matthew’s Hearts of Hope Research Grant.

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  1. Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA

    David Leone & Jonathan Buber

  2. Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA

    Keri Shafer

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Correspondence to Keri Shafer.

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Leone, D., Buber, J. & Shafer, K. Exercise as Medicine: Evaluation and Prescription for Adults with Congenital Heart Disease. Curr Cardiol Rep 25, 1909–1919 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11886-023-02006-1

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