Effect of intradialytic exercises (IDE) on maximal oxygen consumption and quality of life undergoing hemodialysis in Indian population—a pilot study

Abstract

Abstract Background End stage renal disease (ESRD) is emerging as a major health issues across developing countries with limited access and awareness about the importance of exercises in daily life. People on prolong hemodialysis has difficulty in performing their activities of daily living (ADL). Loss of muscle mass is inevitable among patients on hemodialysis that leads to morbidity and mortality. Exercise is feasible during dialysis and can enhance quality of life. Increase in aerobic endurance by various combined protocol of aerobic and resistive exercises can improve compliance to regular exercise that underlines the theme of present study. Methods A total of 31 participants were recruited during November 2019 to February 2020, after screening of 65 participants for selection criteria from Indraprastha Apollo Hospital’s dialysis unit. The average age of the participants was 52.36 ± 11.56 years. A single-blinded, pre-test–post-test quasi-experimental clinical trial for intradialytic exercise program involving lower limb ergometer and resistance training for lower limbs and non-fistula hand for 24 sessions, in 3 months, twice a week was conducted. Results The exercise program was well tolerated and all patients completed it. Aerobic and resistance intradialytic exercises (IDE) had a positive effect on maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 Max), quality of life (SF 36), and sleep quality (PSQI). IDE showed statistically significant difference from pre- to post-intervention for maximal oxygen consumption, quality of life boosting their sleep quality. Conclusions IDE found to benefit the patient and results showed a significant improvement in maximal oxygen consumption, sleep quality, quality of life and fatigue over a span of 12 weeks. Trial registration CTRI, CTRI/2019/08/020848. Registered on 22 August 2019.