Effects of a home-based exercise program on patients undergoing haemodialysis

an exploratory study.

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Patients undergoing haemodialysis are particularly vulnerable due to comorbidities and immunosuppressive drugs. In response, this study aimed to evaluate an alternative home-based exercise program implemented to maintain the physical fitness of HD patients.

Methods: A out-of-clinic resistance training program based on calisthenic exercise was proposed to those HD patients who were participating in an intradialytic exercise program interrupted for ten weeks. Patients were advised to perform a home exercise routine 2 days a week. The impact of the program on physical function was assessed through tests measuring upper and lower body muscle strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and functional autonomy.

Results: Of the 53 patients eligible for the study, 38 agreed to participate and were assigned to either the exercise group (n=17) or the control group (n=21). Twelve participants completed at least 80% of the exercise sessions and were included in the final analysis. The intervention had no significant intra-group effect on the variables assessed. Comparison between groups indicated a significant improvement in lower body muscle strength, favoring the exercise group.

Conclusions: Findings from this exploratory study indicate that a home-based exercise program performed for ten weeks, helped HD patients to prevent muscle function decline.