Early Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Plus Mobilization Improves 6‑Month Function and Quality of Life After Critical Illness

Early Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Plus Mobilization Improves 6‑Month Function and Quality of Life After Critical Illness

In a randomized, blinded trial of 74 mechanically ventilated ICU patients, adding early NMES to an early mobilization program started within 48 hours improved functional status, independence, mobility, and quality of life up to 6 months after discharge versus mobilization alone.
Persistent Inspiratory Muscle Weakness After Prolonged Intubation: MIP at Day 12 Predicts Failure to Recover in the Acute-Care Stay

Persistent Inspiratory Muscle Weakness After Prolonged Intubation: MIP at Day 12 Predicts Failure to Recover in the Acute-Care Stay

In patients extubated after ≥7 days of mechanical ventilation, 43% had persistent inspiratory muscle weakness at hospital discharge. Maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) measured 12 days after diagnosis strongly predicted persistent weakness and may guide early rehabilitation and resource allocation.
Resistance Training in the ICU Improves Muscle, Function, and Survival — HMB Adds Only Modest Benefit

Resistance Training in the ICU Improves Muscle, Function, and Survival — HMB Adds Only Modest Benefit

A multicenter 2×2 factorial RCT in 266 critically ill adults shows that in‑ICU resistance training improves discharge physical function, muscle mass, patient‑reported outcomes, and lowers 6‑ and 12‑month mortality; HMB supplementation produced only small gains in phase angle and fatigue with no additive effect.