Investigation of the effects of motorcognitive dual-task exercises on cognitive function, balance, and functional capacity after liver transplantation: a randomised trial
摘要
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of motor-cognitive dual-task exercises on cognitive function, balance, and functional capacity in liver transplant recipients. To our knowledge, there is currently little research examining this approach in this patient group, and these findings could inform the development of rehabilitation strategies.
MethodsThis study was completed with 44 liver transplant recipients aged 50 years and older. The patients were randomly assigned to routine exercise and motor-cognitive exercise groups. The patients, who were independently mobilised after transplantation, were administered an exercise programme by physiotherapist 7 days a week for a total of 24 sessions. The first assessment was performed before starting the exercise programme, and the second assessment was performed after the 24th session. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, functional capacity was assessed using the 6-min walk test, and balance was assessed using the functional reach, timed up and walk, and single-leg stance tests.
ResultsBased on pre- and post-exercise measurement scores, motor-cognitive dual-task exercises were found to improve cognitive function, balance, and exercise capacity (p < 0.05). The routine physiotherapy programme, on the other hand, did not improve cognitive function (p > 0.05). When comparing the groups, motor-cognitive dual-task exercise resulted in greater improvements in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (p = 0.014) and timed up and go tests (p = 0.002) than the routine exercise programme.
ConclusionsThe findings suggest that incorporating dual-task exercises involving both motor and cognitive elements as an adjunct to routine physiotherapy may improve both cognitive and physical outcomes in liver transplant recipients.
Clinical trials number This study is registered on the Clinical Trials.gov website (Registration Number: NCT05909371).