Original ArticleRelationship between Physical Activity and the Very Low-Frequency Component of Heart Rate Variability after Stroke

BackgroundThe present study aimed to clarify the relationship between high physical activity (PA) and function of the autonomic nervous system, which is important in the prognosis after stroke. We hypothesized a positive association between PA and the very low-frequency (VLF) component of heart rate variability (HRV).MethodsEight patients participated in this study. PA was measured using an accelerometer, and HRV was measured using a heart rate monitor.ResultsA significant and positive relationship was observed between the VLF component of HRV and PA. A significant negative relationship was observed between the VLF component of HRV and the duration of inactivity. No significant relationship was identified between the low-to-high frequency ratio of HRV and between the high-frequency component of HRV and PA.ConclusionsA positive correlation was observed between the VLF component of HRV and PA in stroke patients. Therefore, the VLF component of HRV links PA to cardiovascular prognosis.