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

Background: 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.