SP523THE EFFECTS OF MUSCLE STRENGHT AND PHYSICAL FUNCTION ON BALANCE IN PERITONEAL DIALYSIS PATIENTS

Abstract

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: The skeletal muscle system is influenced by chronic kidney disease. In this study the relationship between muscle strength, physical function and balance in peritoneal dialysis (PD) were evaluated. METHODS: We examined balance, physical function, and muscle strength of 54 patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) and 34 healthy controls by objective measurement methods. RESULTS: The PD patients had significantly more deficits in all tested physical function and balance parameters [Timed up and go (TUG) test, Gait Velocity Test, Timed Chair Stand Test, Stair Climb Test, Static Standing Balance Test (Functional Reach Test), and dynamic balance test (TUG test)] (p<0.005). Isometric muscle strength (Hand Grip Test), and isokinetic knee muscle strength (flexor and extensor) were significantly lower than those of controls (p<0.05), indicating impaired static and dynamic muscle strength. In univariety analyses there was a significant association of all tested physical function and balance parameters [Gait Velocity Test, Timed Chair Stand Test, Stair Climb Test, Functional Reach Test, and TUG test] with isometric muscle strength, and isokinetic muscle strength (p<0.05). In multiple regression analyses, the independent predictors of TUG Test (Dynamic Balance) were age, extension peak torque at 60°/sec N.m (a parameter of isokinetic muscle strength test) in PD patients, whereas serum albumin and duration of dialysis had no independent effect on TUG Test. Age and extension peak torque at 60°/sec N.m were important determinants of Functional reach test (static balance) whereas serum albumin and duration of dialysis had no independent effect on Functional Reach Test. CONCLUSIONS: Our results reveal that patients on PD had a lower physical functioning, poor balance and muscle strength compared to healthy controls. It seems that muscle strength and physical function effects on balance of PD patients. Encouraging physical exercise, strength and balance training may improve the physical functioning, balance and prevent falls associated with fragility fractures.