Impact of Deep Breathing Exercises and Isometric Handgrip Exercises to Improve Chest Expansion, Handgrip Strength, and Quality of Life in Chronic Renal Failure Patients on Dialysis

Abstract

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its terminal stage, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), significantly impair patients' quality of life, necessitating lifelong dialysis or kidney transplantation. Physical exercises have been posited as beneficial adjunct therapies to improve physical functions and overall well-being in this patient population. Objective: This study aimed to assess the effects of deep breathing and isometric handgrip exercises on chest expansion, handgrip strength, and quality of life among patients with chronic renal failure on dialysis. Methods: In a quasi-experimental study design, 22 participants undergoing dialysis at both governmental and private facilities in Faisalabad, Pakistan, were recruited through purposive sampling. Participants engaged in an 8-week program of deep breathing and isometric handgrip exercises. Assessments of chest expansion, handgrip strength, and quality of life were conducted using measuring tapes, hand-held dynamometers, and the WHOQOL questionnaire, respectively. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software version 25, employing paired sample t-tests to compare pre- and post-intervention measurements. Results: Significant improvements were noted post-intervention, with chest expansion increasing from a mean of 1.36 ± 0.49 cm to 1.58 ± 0.10 cm (t=12.990, p<0.001), right-hand grip strength from 1.00 ± 0.53 kg to 1.24 ± 0.11 kg (t=8.775, p<0.001), and left-hand grip strength from 0.82 ± 0.50 kg to 1.04 ± 0.11 kg (t=7.659, p<0.001). Quality of life metrics also showed significant improvements across various dimensions, including overall quality of life, health satisfaction, and physical mobility. Conclusion: The study concluded that deep breathing and isometric handgrip exercises significantly enhance chest expansion, handgrip strength, and the quality of life in dialysis patients, suggesting that incorporating such exercises into routine care could be beneficial. Keywords: Chronic kidney disease, end-stage renal disease, dialysis, deep breathing exercises, isometric handgrip exercises, quality of life, physical therapy.