Physiotherapy in Chronic Haemodialysis Patients. Recommendations of the Expert Committee of the Rehabilitation Section at the Polish Society of Nephrology

Abstract

Background: The introduction of renal replacement therapy and its dynamic development contributes to the constant increase in the number of haemodialysis patients. Extending the life of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is no longer the only objective of the medical community. Recently, measures have been initiated to improve quality of life among patients, which is largely influenced by physical functioning, the ability to undertake physical activity and functional independence. Despite the initiatives carried out for many years in the implementation of various regular physical activity forms among people with CKD in Poland, rehabilitation is still not an element of standard care for nephrological patients. In practice, it is mainly based on periodically implemented research projects, as well as scientific meetings devoted to this subject in groups comprising nephrologists and physiotherapists. Despite numerous scientific reports on the safety and effectiveness of undertaking physical activity by end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients, there are still beliefs in the medical community perceiving this disease as a contraindication to physical training.