Effect of resistance exercise on stress, lower extremity edema, and body composition in intensive care unit nurses

This study investigated the effects of resistance exercises using elastic bands on stress, lower extremity edema, and body composition in intensive care unit nurses. METHODS: Twenty-three and 21 participants were classified into the experimental and control groups, respectively. Only the experimental group was subjected to a resistance exercise program using elastic bands for 8 weeks. Variables were measured before the experimental treatment and at the 4th and 8th weeks post-treatment. Stress was assessed using a numeric rating scale and stress index. Lower extremity edema was determined using a tape measure. Body composition around the calf and tibia muscle was measured using a body composition analyzer. The homogeneity of participants’ general characteristics and the dependent variable was ensured. RESULTS: Following experimental treatment, subjective (F = 11.674, P < .001) and objective stresses (F = 6.965, P < .001) decreased. No difference was detected in calf and ankle circumference between the groups, while differences in muscle thickness (left, F = 31.708, P < .001; right, F = 18.630, P < .001) and fat thickness (left, F = 19.984, P < .001; right, F = 24.640, P < .001) were observed. Muscle thickness increased, and fat thickness decreased in the body composition around the lower extremities. CONCLUSION: Resistance exercises using the TheraBand can be an intervention to decrease stress and improve lower extremity body composition in intensive care unit nurses.