The Effect of Intradialytic Range of Motion Exercise on Dialysis Adequacy and Fatigue in Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Background Many hemodialysis patients experience fatigue as a result of not achieving dialysis adequacy. Purpose This study was designed to determine the effect of intradialytic range-of-motion exercises on dialysis adequacy and fatigue in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Methods In this two-arm experimental study with repeated measures, participants were allocated to treatment (n = 25, 23 completed) and control (n = 25, 24 completed) groups using computerized simple random sampling. Participants in the treatment group performed 30-minute weekly intradialytic exercise sessions in addition to receiving standard care, whereas those in the control group received standard care only. Results Fatigue and dialysis characteristics were reported at baseline, at the midpoint (end of Week 4), and at the end of Week 8. Whereas mean Kt/V (dialysis adequacy) and urea reduction ratio increased and the fatigue level decreased in the treatment group, these variables did not change in the control group. Significant mean differences in Kt/V, urea reduction ratio, and fatigue between the groups were observed at the end of Week 8. Conclusions Intradialytic range-of-motion exercises are recommended for patients undergoing hemodialysis to increase dialysis adequacy and reduce fatigue.