Methods of Grading Exercise Induced Exertion Rates Following Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation in Adults: A Rapid Review

Abstract

 Introduction: Musculoskeletal conditions are common among adults and lead to pain, reduced functional activity,
and impaired quality of life. Exercises are commonly recommended in the rehabilitation and management of these
conditions. This rapid review aims to map and evaluate the existing tools and scales used to measure exertion rates in
adults post-musculoskeletal rehabilitation, providing insights into their application, strength, and limitations.
Methods: Literature Search: We systematically searched electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and the
Cochrane Library) from inception to April 2024.
Eligibility Criteria: Studies that measured exertion rates during exercise intervention in adults following musculoskeletal
rehabilitation were included.
Results: The type of exercise prescription varied widely, including aerobic, resistance, and flexibility exercises. The
exercise rate was predominantly measured using a subjective scale, such as the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE),
and objective measures, such as heart rate and VO2 max. Each method demonstrated specific strengths and limitations.
Subjective tools were praised for their simplicity and patient-centred approach, while objective measures provided
more precise and quantifiable data.
Conclusion: There is considerable variability in exercise-induced exertion rates among adults, which signifies the
need for personalised exercise prescriptions. This rapid review emphasises the value of subjective and objective
tools, advocating for their combined use to enhance accuracy. While usual methods like the Borg RPE scale remain
foundational, integrating modern wearable technology holds promise for more precise monitoring. Further work is
needed to determine whether there is a relationship between exertion rates and clinical outcomes to optimise exercise
interventions for this population.