Effect of Intradialytic Leg Exercise on Functional Status among Patients on Hemodialysis: Explanatory Randomized Control Study

Background: Hemodialysis is the most widely used treatment modality worldwide, it is associated with high rates of functional impairment, morbidity, hospitalization and mortality. Therefore, increasing physical activity through regular exercise, especially intradialytic leg exercise, might be an effective way to improve their functional status which includes physical, mental, and social life’s aspects. Aim of the current study: it was to evaluate the effectiveness of intradialytic leg exercise on functional status among patients on hemodialysis. Design: Explanatory randomized control study design was utilized to accomplish the study purpose. Research hypotheses: H1: Study group who received the intradialytic leg exercise will have a significant higher mean functional score that includes (physical, psychological and social functioning) than the control group who received the routine hospital treatment only. Sample: A sample of 114 adult male and female patients ( 57 patients in each group (study or control group) who met the inclusion criteria was involved in the analysis. Results: there was a statistical significant difference between both study and control groups after applying intradialytic leg exercises in relation to basic physical and social role functions after 3 and 6 weeks consequently. Moreover, there was a statistical significant difference between both study and control groups after applying intradialytic leg exercises in relation to intermediate physical and psychological functions and social activities after 6 weeks; But there was no statistical significant difference regarding social interaction. Conclusion: intradialytic leg exercise was effective to improve many aspects of functional status among patients on hemodialysis. Recommendation: The application of intradialytic leg exercise is recommended to be endorsed as a nursing practice for patients who are scheduled on hemodialysis.