Strength Training Program on Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: A Randomized Clinical Trials

Background: Cirrhosis represents an advanced stage of hepatic fibrosis, and the metabolic changes resulting from liver dysfunction can cause impairment in physical capacity and quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of 12 weeks of resistance exercise on inflammatory markers, oxidative stress, physical conditioning, and quality of life in patients with liver cirrhosis. Methods: 38 patients paired in the exercise (EG) and control (CG) groups participated in the study. The EG submitted to 2 weekly sessions of a program composed of resistance exercises. We evaluated the inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α), oxidative stress (carbonylated protein, total thiols, enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase activity), body composition, handgrip strength (HGS), and total volume of training, cardiorespiratory capacity (VO2, VCO2 and VEpeak), exercise capacity and quality of life. Results: Regarding the EG, when comparing the follow-up moment to the baseline, significant differences (p<0.05) were found in BMI, HGS, total training volume, cardiorespiratory capacity variables, 6-min walk test, and quality of life. Improvements were observed, without significant differences, in the inflammatory profile, oxidative stress, and in one of the markers of liver function. The CG showed a significant decrease (p<0.05) in HGS and cardiorespiratory capacity after the intervention. Conclusions: In patients with liver cirrhosis, a resistance exercise program improved physical fitness and quality of life, without adverse events. Besides, it seems that this type of training can bring some benefit to the inflammatory profile and oxidative stress of this population.