RCT of a 6-month programmed sports therapy (PST) in patients with haemophilia - Improvement of physical fitness

Physical fitness is of major importance for patients with haemophilia (PwH) but is highly influenced by bleeding episodes. Although some cohort studies describe an improvement of physical fitness after training intervention, randomized controlled studies (RCT) in PwH are still rare. Aim: The aim of this study was to prove the enhancement of physical work capacity in PwH by programmed sports therapy (PST). Methods: This RCT includes a training period over six months. Sixty-four PwH with moderate (n = 5) to severe (n = 59) haemophilia A (n = 57) and B (n = 7) were randomized into two groups - training intervention group (IG) and control group (CG) by block randomization. Complex strength measurements, joint score, coordination check and a 12-min walking test were carried out before and after training intervention. Results: Significant differences were tested in M. triceps brachii (Delta+0.62 N kg(-1)), biceps brachii (Delta+1.25 N kg(-1)), latissimus dorsi (Delta+0.59 N kg(-1)), rectus abdominis (Delta+0.51 N kg(-1)), biceps femoris (right: Delta+0.68 N kg(-1)); left: Delta+0.59 N kg(-1)) and the quadriceps femoris (right: Delta+0.71 N kg(-1); left: Delta+0.55 N kg(-1)) after intervention between the two groups (all p <= 0.003). Furthermore, an increase in distance (Delta+171.5 m) covered in the 12-min walking test (P = 0.011) was observed. Regarding one-leg stand, a significant improvement (P = 0.037) in the IG (Delta+2.2 s right leg) after intervention could be determined. Conclusion: For the first time, a study with a corresponding number of adult PwH in a RCT-design showed that programmed sport therapy with specific instructions over 6 months has a positive effect on physical performance of PwH, independent of constitution and disease process.