The effects of an exercise therapy program on joint range of motion, aerobic fitness, and anxiety of hemophilia a patients

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to survey the effects an exercise therapy program on joint range of motion (ROM), aerobic fitness, and anxiety of patients with hemophilia A. Methods: This study included 20 male hemophilia A patients (age: 22.55 ± 8.07 years; height: 172.17 ± 12.42 cm, weight: 60.88 ± 12.88 kg). After filling consent forms by subjects, pretests were performed during 1 week. The subjects were then randomly allocated into two groups. The experimental group participated in a selected exercise therapy program 3 times a week for 8 weeks. Finally, all tests were repeated as posttests. Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics including paired sample t-test and analysis of covariance were used to analyze data. The significance level was considered as P < 0.05. Findings: There were significant improvements in joints (ankle, knee, hip, shoulder, and elbow) ROM, aerobic fitness, and anxiety of the experimental group after participating in the exercise therapy program (P < 0.05). Moreover, comparisons between groups showed significant differences in joints ROM, aerobic fitness, and anxiety between the experimental and control groups after the intervention (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Correctly designed and performed physical activities can improve levels of physical and psychological factors in hemophilia patients. They should thus be considered seriously as a part of treatment for these patients.