Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 21 to 65

Comparing physical therapy during dialysis versus before dialysis for adults on hemodialysis

Official title: A Comparative Study of Intradialytic Versus Pre-Dialysis Physical Therapy Interventions in Individuals Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Run by Ministry of Health, Kuwait · NCT07361146 · Data updated 2026-11-12

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

Study typeInterventional
Ages21 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
Enrollment72 (estimated)
SponsorMinistry of Health, Kuwait
Government
Locations1 site (Hawalli)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMarch 2, 2025
Main results expectedMarch 2, 2027
Study endsJune 2, 2027
Registry record updatedJanuary 22, 2026
Trial IDNCT07361146 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a 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.

Probably 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.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

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.

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 gone: 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.

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

  • Mubarak Al-Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Dialysis Center
    Hawalli, Kuwait
    Recruiting

Similar studies

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.