Early rehabilitation of patients in the convalescence phase after myocardial infarction. Results of a multicentre study in GDR health resorts.

Carried out within the framework of the GDR myocardial infarction control programme, this study presents the organisational model of early rehabilitation of post-infarction patients in convalescence (phase II according to WHO) in health resorts and sanatoria. By referring to a multicentre study conducted on 5,069 patients in six sanatoria of the GDR, a higher physical performance and cardiac relaxation are set forth as essential results, coupled with a decline in the sympathico-adrenergic response, which are concomitant with an improved state of health. Twelve months following the cure, 77% of the patients regained their ability to work, with 71% of them back in their former jobs.