Effect of Stretching Exercises Versus Aerobic Exercises on Preeclampsia

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Stretching exercises program: Each woman in the first experimental group will follow a supervised stretching exercise program three times per week for six weeks. Sessions will begin with deep breathing warm-up, followed by stretching each target muscle for 10 seconds with 10 seconds relaxation for the first two weeks, 15 seconds stretching and relaxation in weeks three and four, and 20 seconds in weeks five and six. Each stretch will be repeated 10 times per session. After six weeks, women will be instructed to continue these exercises until delivery.

Aerobic exercises program: The second experimental group will follow a supervised aerobic exercise program of mild to moderate intensity (40%-60% HRmax, calculated as 220 minus age). Heart rate will be monitored before and during exercise. The program, conducted three times per week for six weeks, will start with a 5-minute low-speed walking warm-up. In the first two weeks, this will be followed by 10 minutes on a treadmill (King Fitness Model 8000AC), 5 minutes relaxation, 10 minutes on a stationary bike (GRASP93026), and 5 minutes relaxation. In weeks three and four, treadmill and bike sessions will increase to 15 minutes each, with 10 minutes relaxation between. In weeks five and six, treadmill and bike time will increase to 20 minutes, with 15 minutes relaxation between. After six weeks, women will continue these exercises until delivery.

Antihypertensive drugs: All women in both groups will be treated by antihypertensive drugs (labipress) for 6 weeks.

Study summary

The purpose of the study is to compare between the effect of stretching exercises and aerobic exercises on preeclampsia.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Measurement of arterial blood pressure — 6 weeks
  Arterial blood pressure will be measured from the right arm while the woman is in a half-lying position. The measurement will be the mean of three trials. Each woman in both groups will be assessed before and after the six-week treatment period.
• Measurement of proteinuria — 6 weeks
  Each woman in both groups will be asked to collect a 24-hour urine sample in sterilized glass bottles for measurement of protein levels. This collection will take place before and after the six-week treatment period.

Trial sites (1)

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