A treadmill stress test is always ordered by and performed by a doctor and medical technician. It is not something that you should try by yourself, or try on someone else. The test requires advanced medical equipment and expertise. You may have a treadmill at your home but this does not mean that you are capable of performing a treadmill stress test.

The test is performed by a medical doctor and technician who place electrodes on the chest of the person being tested. The placement of the electrodes is the same as for that of an electrocardiogram. The patient has to start by walking on the treadmill. As the test progresses the incline level and speed are increased. The doctor monitors the EKG pattern as the patient continues to have the intensity level increased. The test can continue for as long as thirty minutes depending on the patient and if any sort of chest pain or problem arises the test is canceled immediately. These are the basic parts of a treadmill stress test.

So why are these stress tests so important? The reason why treadmill stress tests are performed is to monitor the hearts performance under certain levels of stress. The treadmill stress test can record the heart's rate and rhythm under stress. For most people this is not an issue, but for those of use who have heart conditions or some sort of heart defect, the treadmill stress test can help pinpoint the problem. Irregular heart rhythms will show up as the test is performed. Another thing the test monitors is if the heart does not get the proper level of blood and oxygen during exercise. Because the test takes place over several minutes and because the level of difficulty is gradually increased, the test can show up to what level the heart can work before a problem arises. The treadmill stress test can also help to determine how well the heart returns or recovers after the stress is laid on it. Although perhaps not as related to issues regarding serious heart conditions or problems, the treadmill stress test can also help to show the level of conditioning in the cardiovascular system. The test can also determine what a person's target exercise heart rate should be, which is very important to know for exercise purposes.

As you can see, a treadmill stress test can be a very important tool for determining vital information about the heart and its performance under stress. It can be used to determine important information for those suffering from a serious health problem, as well as for those who are trying to find a better way to exercise. Remember that the test should never be performed by anyone other than a medical professional. Do not try the test at home on a friend or family member.