Effectiveness of Muscle Stretching Exercise on Quality of Life of Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Abstract Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a disease affecting both kidneys in which progressive irreversible destruction of the renal tissues occurs. This leads to alteration of the metabolic function of the kidneys due to destruction of the nephrons. Kidney dysfunction is considered to occur when the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) falls below 60 ml/min/1.73 m2, for longer than three months. Aim of the Work To determine the effectiveness of structured muscles stretching exercise program on Quality of Life among patients undergoing haemodialysis Methodology We recruited 60 patients with hemodialysis from dialysis unit within Misr University for science and technology (MUST), faculty of medicine. Patients with mean age between 30 and 60 years old undergoing hemodialysis for at least 6 months in a regular form for at least 2 times a week were included. Patients with a history of orthopedic or psychological problems were excluded. Patients who were critically ill or have a prior history of dopamine receptor antagonist, benzodiazepines, opioids, anticonvulsants were also excluded. Informed consent was obtained from all participants before enrollment into the study. All methods correspond to the STROBE statement for cross sectional study. Results In our study, we applied the regular exercises programs for 6 months after each session and then administrated the KDQOL questionnaire again after completion of the exercises. We found that there was a slight increase in the quality of life with all domains. This increase was more evident especially in BKD domain in which the median increased from 0 (0 – 12.5) to 6.25 (0 – 12.5), and PCS in which the mean increased from 6.25 ± 5.8 to 8.13 ± 5.1 post exercise. However, none of those changes was statistically significant (p = 0.236, p = 0.510) respectively. Conclusion End stage kidney disease (ESKD) is a chronic disease that forms a great burden on the societies and governments. Regular monitoring and follow up of those patients and trying to improve their quality of life is extremely important. Regular physical exercises are considered the most useful nonpharmacological alternative that helps improves their QOL and prevents the dialysis induced complications as impaired muscle catabolism and sensation of chronic fatigue.