Low-Volume Exercise Rehabilitation Improves Functional Capacity and Self-Reported Functional Status of Dialysis Patients

Abstract

Mercer TH, Crawford C, Gleeson NP, Naish PF: Low-volume exercise rehabilitation improves functional capacity and self-reported functional status of dialysis patients. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2002;81:162–167.

Objective 

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a program of low-volume exercise rehabilitation on the functional capacity and self-reported functional status of nonanemic dialysis patients.

Design 

This was a controlled study in a clinical setting with a repeated measures design. Functional capacity and functional status were assessed before and after 12 wk of exercise rehabilitation or 12 wk of normal activity for two groups of dialysis patients.

Results 

Mixed-model repeated measures analysis of variance revealed significant group by time interactions characterized by improvements for the exercise rehabilitation group alone in total walk, stair-climb, and stair-descent times of 15 ± 5.8%, 22 ± 11%, and 18 ± 12% respectively. Self-reported walking speed, walking impairment–leg weakness, and walking impairment–shortness of breath were also observed to improve significantly for the exercise rehabilitation group alone by 15 ± 13%, 25 ± 11%, and 28 ± 16%, respectively.

Conclusion 

Low-volume exercise rehabilitation can improve activity of daily living–related functional capacity and self-reported functional status of nonanemic dialysis patients.