Comparing physical therapy during dialysis versus before dialysis for adults on hemodialysis
A Comparative Study of Intradialytic Versus Pre-Dialysis Physical Therapy Interventions in Individuals Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This project tests whether supervised exercises done during dialysis or before dialysis help adults on hemodialysis improve physical function, quality of life, and blood measures like hemoglobin and electrolytes.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 72 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Ministry of Health, Kuwait Government |
| Locations | 1 site (Hawalli) |
| Trial ID | NCT07361146 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial will enroll 72 adults aged 21–65 with end-stage renal disease who have been on maintenance hemodialysis for at least three months and are medically cleared for exercise. Participants are randomly assigned to perform a standardized, supervised exercise program either during their dialysis sessions (intradialytic) or immediately before dialysis (pre-dialysis), after receiving the same educational sessions on exercise benefits and safety. Interventions occur twice weekly for 12 weeks, with physical function, quality of life, and biochemical measures such as hemoglobin and electrolytes tracked as outcomes. The trial is conducted at the Mubarak Al‑Abdullah Al‑Jaber Al‑Sabah Dialysis Center in Hawalli.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 21–65 with end-stage renal disease who have been on maintenance hemodialysis for at least three months and are medically cleared for moderate exercise are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Patients with unstable cardiovascular disease (uncontrolled hypertension, recent MI, or unstable angina), severe musculoskeletal or neurological limitations, active infection or recent hospitalization, or those already participating in a structured exercise program are unlikely to benefit or may be excluded.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the results could identify the best timing for exercise to improve strength, daily functioning, and some blood test results in people on hemodialysis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies of intradialytic exercise have shown improvements in physical function and quality of life, though direct comparisons of intradialytic versus pre-dialysis timing are limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged between 21 and 65 years. * Diagnosed with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). * Undergoing maintenance hemodialysis for at least 3 months. * Medically stable and cleared by the nephrologist to participate in moderate physical exercise. * Able to understand and follow verbal instructions and provide informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Uncontrolled hypertension, recent myocardial infarction, or unstable angina. * Severe musculoskeletal, neurological, or cardiovascular disorders that limit physical activity. * Active infection, fever, or open wounds. * Recent hospitalization within the past month. * Participation in any other structured exercise program within the last 3 months.
Where this trial is running
Hawalli
- Mubarak Al-Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Dialysis Center — Hawalli, Kuwait (Recruiting)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.