A Progressive Resistance Training Program in Patients With Haemophilia

The Impact of Progressive Resistance Training on Quality of Life in Patients With Haemophilia

This study evaluates the clinical impact of a progressive resistance training program in adults patients with haemophilia

The training program aims improving muscular strength and endurance in the relevant muscles and joints (knee, elbow, ankle, shoulder and hip) in order to improve the quality of life in the patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• diagnosis of haemophilia A or B
• willingness to exercise twice a week during the training program and to complete the pre- and post-program evaluations
• approval by their hematologist to participate in the exercise program
• age between 18 and 60 years
• informed consent signed.

Exclusion Criteria:

• the inability to attend exercise sessions at least twice a week for 6 consecutive weeks
• non adherence to instruction on proper exercise technique
• surgical procedures performed 6 weeks prior to or during the exercise program
• participation in any other form of exercise, including rehabilitation, during the study; (5) changes in medication during the study
• a major bleeding episode that posed a risk or prevented exercise
• History of FVIII inhibitor (titer ≥ 0.6 BU [Bethesda unit]) or detectable FVIII inhibitors at screening (titer ≥ 0.4 BU)
• Another haemostatic defect
• Need for major surgery
• Withdrawal of informed consent