Publication Date
8-30-2023
Journal
Scientific Reports
DOI
10.1038/s41598-023-41290-3
PMID
37648695
PMCID
PMC10469197
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
8-30-2023
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-print
Published Open-Access
yes
Keywords
Humans, Aged, Middle Aged, Walking Speed, Single-Blind Method, Exercise, Gait, Diabetes Mellitus, Geriatrics, Musculoskeletal system
Abstract
Older adults with diabetes receiving hemodialysis have impaired gait speed and balance compared to the general population, which have been associated with increased risks of falls and mortality. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a game-based intradialytic exercise training program (iExergame) on improving gait speed and balance. This was a single-blind randomized controlled trial. The intervention group (IG) received iExergame training using real-time audiovisual feedback with wearable inertial sensors. The control group (CG) received conventional training without any technology. Both trainings were intradialytic, non-weight-bearing, and used ankle range of motion. Gait and balance parameters were collected at baseline and 4-week follow-up. Data from 70 adults (age 64.2 ± 9.0 years) were analyzed. Compared to the CG, the IG showed greater changes between baseline and 4-week follow-up in several parameters. Gait parameters included faster speeds and longer stride lengths, particularly during dual task walking (p < 0.050). Balance parameters included reductions in center of mass (p = 0.004), ankle (p < 0.001), and hip (p = 0.010) sways during semi-tandem stance, particularly in users of assistive devices. iExergame training could improve gait speed and balance in this population and might be an option to increase intradialytic exercise adherence while reducing burdens of exercise administration.