The deterioration in physical function of hemodialysis patients

Physical function in people on hemodialysis deteriorates significantly, however quantification of the rate of deterioration has not been well established. The aim of this study was to examine the rate of deterioration in objective physical function among end-stage kidney disease patients receiving hemodialysis.

One hundred and ninety-three participants (mean age 67.5 ±13.2 years, 60.6% males) receiving hemodialysis in Australia. Objective physical function was assessed via the 30-second sit-to-stand and eight-foot timed up-and-go at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks.

We found a decrease in the mean number 30-second sit-to-stands performed from 10.0 (IQR, 4.0 to 13.0); 95% CI (8.0, 11.0) to 8.0 (IQR, 0.0 to 11.0); 95% CI (5.5, 9.0) at 12 weeks to 7.0 (IQR, 0.0 to 11.0); 95% CI (5.5, 9.0) at 24 weeks and a significant overall decreased rate (RR = 0.82; 95% CI, 0.80 to 0.85; P < 0.001). There was a decreased performance in the eight-foot timed up-and-go time from 8.9 seconds (95% CI: 8.1 to 9.7) to 9.0 (95% CI: 8.1 to 9.7) after 12 weeks and further increasing to 9.7 (95% CI: 8.7 to 9.6) seconds after 24 weeks, and overall decreased rate (HR = 0.56; 95% CI, 0.39 to 0.80; P = 0.001) between baseline and week 24.

Physical function significantly decreases on hemodialysis. Exercise programs to address this physical function decline should be included in hemodialysis treatment regimens.