Weight carrying after myocardial infarction.

The blood-pressure responses to carrying a 15 kg. weight in a shoppong basket, and in a rucksack on the back, were compared in 13 ambulant male patients who were convalescing from an uncomplicated myocardial infarction. In 8 of the patients a sustained-handgrip test was also performed. Carrying the weight in the hand produced a distinct increase in blood-pressure, which did not occur when the weight was carried on the back. There was also a significant increase in blood-pressure during sustained handgrip. In view of the lack of symptoms with these circulatory changes, it is concluded that more specific advice about the possible dangers of sustained static exercise should be given to patients recovering from myocardial infarction.