The Effect of Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain on Sexual Function and Quality of Life of Cardiac Rehabilitation Patients

BACKGROUND: Comorbidities are stressors to the body and have a negative impact on quality of life and sexual function. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of the coexistence of coronary heart disease and chronic musculoskeletal pain on sexual function and quality of life of patients undergoing an exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation program. METHODS: This cross-sectional observational study included 105 patients. Instruments used were the musculoskeletal system assessment inventory, Short-Form Health Survey quality-of-life questionnaire, International Index of Erectile Function, and Female Sexual Function Index. RESULTS: There were no differences in male sexual function compared between participants with and without pain. Participants with pain had lower quality-of-life scores related to socioemotional aspects. CONCLUSIONS: The coexistence of coronary heart disease and musculoskeletal pain does not seem to affect patients' sexual function, but it negatively affects Patients' quality of life. This study emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary team working in a cardiac rehabilitation program addressing issues related to pain, sexual function, and quality of life.