Starting and managing an intradialytic exercise program

In recent years, scientific literature has demonstrated numerous improvements in physical, vocational, and emotional outcomes from an intradialytic exercise program for end-stage renal disease patients. Despite documented benefits, most dialysis clinics have not moved to incorporate exercise for their patients. This could be due to many factors including lack of patient interest and/or the lack of information on how to get an exercise program started. This article describes how the University of Virginia Renal Services incorporated an exercise program and has found success with adherence to the program from staff and patients. With proper commitment from administration and staff, an exercise program for ESRD patients can become a reality and a standard treatment of care for dialysis patients.