The role of using elastic compression stockings in the prevention of muscles cramps episode in patients undergoing hemodialysis: A randomized controlled trial
Zahraa Adel Kareem, Hassan Abdullah AthbiBACKGROUND:
Intradialytic muscles cramps are frequent complication and common cause of early hemodialysis (HD) termination. These cramps are thought to be precipitated by intradialytic venous stasis and reduced tissue perfusion. Elastic compression stockings (ECS) compress the calf and thigh to counteract venous pooling and increase venous return. This study aims to examine the effect of ECSs in the prevention of intradialytic muscle cramps.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 82 HD patients in Holy Karbala, selected through simple random sampling. Patients in the compression group wrapped stockings firmly around both calves for 30 min from the end of the second hour to the beginning of the third hour of the HD session. Data were collected using a structured sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire and a cramp questionnaire chart. The analysis of data was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 26.0. Descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviations) and inferential statistics (independent samples
RESULTS:
Among the compression stockings group, 81.2% experienced no muscle cramps, while 18.8% reported mild cramps. Only age and the amount of fluid removed showed statistically significant results (
CONCLUSIONS:
Wrapping compression stockings firmly around both calves for 30 min during a HD session was an effective strategy in reducing the incidence and severity of muscle cramps during a HD session.