Health Topics for Sports Medicine

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery

UI Family Care

Exercise and treadmill tests

A treadmill stress test shows how your heart responds to physical exertion. EKG patches are attached to the chest while a patient walks on a treadmill and the heart's electrical patterns are recorded. The test also measures changes in the heart's rhythm and pulse that develop during the exercise session.

The treadmill speed and incline are gradually increased throughout a treadmill test. The patient first begins at a walking pace that may change to a jogging or running pace. Patients are encouraged to continue for as long as they can. When the patient cannot continue, the treadmill is slowed down to allow a safe recovery from the strenuous pace.

Heart problems that may appear during exercise may be detected by the test. When oxygen uptake equipment is attached, the test also judges how fit the body is. The test is often used to assess the effectiveness of medications and to reassess patients in cardiac rehabilitation programs.

Results of the treadmill test help identify the right kind of exercise program for the health needs of the patient. They show the progress made by cardiac rehabilitation patients who are often required to take a series of treadmill tests to chart their progress.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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