The objective of this randomized clinical trial is to compare the effects of a standardized exercise program alone versus the same program combined with neuromuscular electrical stimulation in patients undergoing heart failure . The main questions it aims to answer are:
* Assessing the ultrasonographic parameters: echo intensity (echogenicity), cross-sectional area, thickness, and pennation angle of the rectus femoris muscle in both lower limbs. * Evaluating the strength of the femoral quadriceps muscle * Evaluating the changes in the chronaxie of the rectus femoris muscle in both lower limbs.
The protocol will have a total duration of 32 days, with an initial intervention period of 18 days, followed by a 14-day follow-up period.
Age ≥ 18 years
Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) for more than 48 hours
Dobutamine ≤ 20 mcg/kg/min
Norepinephrine ≤ 0.2 mcg/kg/min (35)
Need for invasive mechanical ventilatory support
If the patient or responsible family member fails to sign or withdraws the informed consent
University of Sao Paulo General Hospital
Lead sponsor