How Can Exercise Impact Management of Cystic Fibrosis?

How Can Exercise Impact Management of Cystic Fibrosis?

December 13, 2021

How can aerobic exercise impact treatment burden, management of symptoms, and quality of life for individuals living with Cystic Fibrosis?

    What is Cystic Fibrosis?

• A progressive, genetic disorder which leads to a mutation of the CFTR (Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) protein
• Mutation leads to thick, sticky mucus build up in airways; can trap germs and bacteria which may lead to potentially fatal respiratory complications

    Effects of aerobic exercise on the body

• Regulates weight
• Strengthens immune system
• Reduces chronic pain
• Improves cardiovascular health

    How Aerobic Exercise can Benefit Cystic Fibrosis Patients, According to Research

• Increase exercise capacity and VO2 max, which may translate to improved pulmonary function
• Increased exercise capacity translates to lessened treatment burden, which can improve quality of life
• Stronger pulmonary function increased ability to clear sputum from airways

    How Aerobic Exercise can be Incorporated into Treatment for Cystic Fibrosis Patients

• Individualized exercise programs prescribed by doctors which take into consideration:
• Is the person clinically stable enough to participate in strenuous physical activity?
• Is the person willing to participate in and remain consistent with prescribed activities?
• What factors would warrant discontinuation of the program from the patients treatment plan?
• Various types of aerobic activity may be prescribed based on patient interest and safety level for that person
• May be done at home or in outpatient settings 

    Summary

• Introduction of aerobic exercise to typical treatment for Cystic Fibrosis patients can help improve quality of life and lessen the burden of treatment on the person
• Aerobic exercise poses many health benefits associated with increased exercise capacity, including improved pulmonary function

    Additional Resources

• https://www.cff.org/managing-cf/fitness
• https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/c/cystic-fibrosis-exercise

    About the Author

Meaghan Kirley is a senior at Westfield State University, studying Movement Science with a concentration in Sports Medicine. Meaghan is an active member of Westfield State's Health Profession's Club and works as a CNA at an assisted living facility. She plans to continue her education in an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program post graduation. Meaghan can be reached at meaghankirley@gmail.com.

References

Dassios, T., Katelari, A., Doudounakis, S., & Dimitriou, G. (2013). Aerobic exercise and respiratory muscle strength in patients with cystic fibrosis. Respiratory Medicine, 107(5), 684–690. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rmed.2013.01.016

Elbasan, B., Tunali, N., Duzgun, I., & Ozcelik, U. (2012). Effects of chest physiotherapy and aerobic exercise training on physical fitness in young children with cystic fibrosis. Italian Journal of Pediatrics, 38(1), 2. https://doi.org/10.1186/1824-7288-38-2

Gruber, W., Orenstein, D. M., Braumann, K. M., & Beneke, R. (2013). Interval exercise training in cystic fibrosis — Effects on exercise capacity in severely affected adults. Journal of Cystic Fibrosis. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcf.2013.06.005

Paranjape, S. M., Barnes, L. A., Carson, K. A., von Berg, K., Loosen, H., & Mogayzel, P. J. (2012). Exercise improves lung     function and habitual activity in children with cystic fibrosis. Journal of Cystic Fibrosis, 11(1), 18–23. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcf.2011.08.003