Physical activity, muscle performance and quality of life in patients treated with chronic peritoneal dialysis

Objective: Today's medical treatment of patients with end-stage renal failure has increased their opportunities for an active lifestyle. The aim of this study was to describe the muscle performance, level of physical activity, independence in activities of daily living and quality of life in patients treated with chronic peritoneal dialysis. Material and Methods: The study investigated 33 patients (30-81 years old) treated with chronic peritoneal dialysis. The results were compared with an age-matched healthy reference group. Muscle mass was determined by measuring total body potassium, while maximal grip strength was measured with an electric force transducer. The ability to perform heel-lifts, walking speed and level of physical activity were also assessed, along with the extent to which patients were independent in activities of daily living (ADL) and satisfied with their health. Results: Total body potassium was 97 +/- 11.6% of normal and correlated positively with the maximal grip strength (r = 0.658, p < 0.0002) and the maximal walking speed (r = 0.558, p < 0.0027). Maximal grip strength was 70% of the reference, the ability to perform heel-lifts was 49% of the reference, the walking speed was 85% the reference and the level of physical activity was 56% of expected. The patients were independent in ADL to a great extent and 52% of the patients were satisfied with their health. Conclusion: The peritoneal dialysis patients had a relatively good quality of life and were largely independent in ADL Further studies are needed to investigate whether it is possible to improve muscle performance and the level of physical activity with exercise and muscle training in these patients.