Objective: The main objective of this investigation was to assess feasibility of conducting a future RCT with an intradialysis non-immersive virtual reality exercise intervention. The secondary aim was to explore the impact of either conventional or VR exercise on physical function.
Design: Feasibility randomized trial.
Participants: Eighteen subjects who participated in a 16-week intradialysis combined exercise program.
Interventions: The program lasted four additional weeks of either combined exercise or virtual reality exercise.
Main outcome measures: Physical function was measured through several reliable tests (sit-to-stand-to-sit tests 10 and 60, gait speed, one-leg heel-rise tests, and 6-minute walk test) at baseline, after 16 weeks of intradialysis combined exercise and by the end of four additional weeks of exercise. Adherence to the exercise programs was registered.
Results: There was a significant time effect, so that physical function improved in both groups. By the end of the 20 weeks, function improved as measured through the sit-to-stand-to-sit tests 10 and 60, gait speed, one-leg heel-rise left leg, and the 6-minute walk test. Changes that did not occur due to error in the test were seen after 20 weeks were achieved in the sit-to-stand-to-sit test 60, gait speed, one-leg heel-rise test for the left leg, and 6-minute walking test.
Conclusion: Virtual reality was a feasible intervention. Both interventions improved physical function. Adherence was not significantly different between groups.
Keywords: adherence; exercise; hemodialysis; physical function; virtual reality.
© 2018 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.