| [ Summary ] |
Hemodialysis (HD) patients exhibit reduced levels of fitness. They also display various structural, metabolic and functional abnormalities, due to uremic changes in skeletal muscles. The exercise capacity of HD patients declines in a manner independent of the extent of renal dysfunction. Aerobic and resistance exercise are beneficial in terms of improving physical functions, including maximal oxygen uptake and muscle strength. A host of other functions and conditions may improve as well. These include improved anthropometrics, nutritional status, hematological indexes, inflammatory cytokine levels, depression and health related quality of life issues. As a result, it is widely accepted that exercise is a cornerstone of treatment for HD patients as it is for the health of the general population. However it is often difficult to incorporate exercise regimens into treatment programs. Recently interventions during hemodialysis sessions have become more popular and have been shown to be safe. The risks of exercise related injuries in the general population have been studied and found to be low. Exercise programs should be incorporated into treatment programs for HD patients. As a result, their development and implementation should be carried out in an expeditious manner. |