Therapeutic Exercises During Hospitalization in Oncohematological Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Hematology
• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Hospitalized onco-hematological patients may benefit from therapeutic exercises.
• Optimal exercise protocols and outcome measures require further clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of a structured aerobic and resistance exercise program during hospitalization for onco-hematological patients.

Main Methods:

• Randomized clinical trial comparing a combined aerobic and resistance training program with conventional exercises.
• Outcomes assessed: functional capacity, muscle strength, quality of life, fatigue, pain, and dyspnea.
• Statistical analysis: repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significant improvements in dyspnea (p=0.017) and pain (p=0.024) compared to the control group.
• Significant reductions in insomnia (p=0.021) and improvements in emotional functioning (p=0.024) were observed in the intervention group.
• No significant between-group differences were found for fatigue, muscle strength, or functional capacity.

Conclusions:

• A short-term combined exercise program is safe and beneficial for reducing pain and dyspnea in hospitalized onco-hematological patients.
• The program also positively impacted insomnia and emotional functioning.
• Limited effects on fatigue, muscle strength, and functional capacity may be due to the short duration and limited sessions; longer interventions and post-discharge follow-up are recommended.