Effects of Supervised Intradialytic Exercise Program on Postural Abnormalities in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This randomized, assessor-blinded controlled trial will evaluate the preliminary efficacy and safety of a 12-week supervised intradialytic multimodal exercise program for improving postural abnormalities in adults receiving maintenance hemodialysis. Participants will be randomized to either supervised intradialytic exercise plus usual care or usual care alone. The exercise program will be performed three times per week during scheduled hemodialysis sessions and will include postural correction exercises, resistance-band strengthening, core stabilization, stretching, breathing exercises, and seated aerobic cycling. The primary outcome will be change in thoracic kyphosis angle from baseline to Week 12. Secondary outcomes will include craniovertebral angle, balance, mobility, functional exercise capacity, gait speed, physical activity level, adherence, and adverse events. The findings may provide preliminary evidence on the feasibility, safety, and potential clinical value of incorporating postural correction exercises into routine hemodialysis care.
• Age 18-80 years
• Diagnosed with ESRD and receiving stable maintenance hemodialysis for at least 3 months at the participating center, with a dialysis frequency of three sessions per week
• Confirmed presence of at least one postural abnormality (hyperkyphosis ≥53° in women or ≥55° in men, or CVA \<53°) assessed at screening
• Written informed consent obtained, indicating decision-making capacity and willingness to participate
• Medical clearance from attending nephrologist to participate in supervised exercise during dialysis
• Ability to sit upright in a dialysis chair and perform seated or supported standing exercises
• Ability to communicate in Persian and understand study instructions