| [ Summary ] |
Hemodialysis patients experience renal anemia, uremic malnutrition, reduced muscle mass, reduced exercise tolerance, are easily fatigued, have low physical activity levels and low quality of life (QOL). Renal rehabilitation is a new comprehensive rehabilitation program, which includes exercise training, education, medication, diet therapy, psychological and vocational counseling for patients with renal diseases. Exercise can improve many indicators of physical functioning, such as fitness, muscle mass, physical performance, and also improve malnutrition-inflammation-atherosclerosis syndrome, catabolism, exercise tolerance and overall QOL for hemodialysis patients. Results from an international study of hemodialysis patients indicate that regular exercise is associated with better outcomes in this population. The Japanese Society of Renal Rehabilitation was established in January, 2011. Participation by the medical community in this society is sincerely welcomed. |