Comparison of the efficacy of intradialytic core stabilization and aerobic exercises for hemodialysis patients: randomized controlled single-blind study

Abstract

Purpose: This study was performed to investigate and compare the effects of intradialytic core stabilization and aerobic exercises on physical performance, fatigue, quality of life and dialysis adequacy. Materials and methods: The study involved 39 individuals on hemodialysis randomized into two groups: aerobic exercise (AE, n = 20) and core stabilization (CSE, n = 19). Over 8 weeks, the AE group performed pedal ergometer exercises, while the CSE group performed 4-phase core stabilization exercises. Physical performance (five times sit to stand test, 2-min step test), quality of life (Kidney Disease Quality of Life-36; KDQOL-36), fatigue levels (Piper Fatigue Scale), and dialysis adequacy (Kt/V and URR) were assessed. Results: After training, a significant improvement was observed in the physical performance, fatigue levels, and some parameters of KDQOL-36 of the patients (p < 0.05). However, no significant changes were observed in dialysis adequacy indicators (Kt/V and URR) (p > 0.05). When the amount of development obtained in both treatment groups is compared, kidney disease burden only in the subparameter of KDQOL-36 was statistically significantly improved in the CSE group compared to the AE group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: According to the results of the study, intradialytic core stabilization exercises appear to have similar effects to aerobic exercises and can be performed by HD patients. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.