Upper extremity exercise capacity muscle oxygenization balance and physical activity in patients with cystic fibrosis

<bold>Introduction:</bold> Exercise capacity decreases in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). Decreased exercise capacity and impaired lung function are associated with decreased physical activity level also mitochondrial involvement and slow phosphocreatine metabolism are common in these patients. However, no study investigated upper extremity exercise capacity and oxygen metabolism at the cellular level, yet. <bold>Aim:</bold> To compare aforementioned outcomes in patients with CF and healthy controls. Method: 31 children with CF (FEV_1% =79.48±25.8, Shwachman–Kulczycki score= 85 (80-95) points), 30 healthy controls, were included. Pulmonary function (spirometer), upper extremity exercise capacity (6-minute Pegboard and Ring test (6-PBRT), muscle oxygenation (Moxy^® monitor), static balance (Biodex Biosway^® Balance System) and physical activity level (metabolic holter) were evaluated. <bold>Results:</bold> Pulmonary function was statistically decreased in patients. (p<0.05). 6-PBRT total ring count, muscle oxygen saturation and hemoglobin level were similar in the groups (p>0.05). The medial-lateral stability index of patients on soft ground with eyes open and physical activity duration were statistically significantly higher than controls (p<0.05). <bold>Conclusion:</bold> Upper extremity exercise capacity, muscle oxygenation and static balance of the CF with lung function impairment are preserved. The majority of patient are physically inactive. Pediatric patients with CF should be evaluated for rehabilitation needs at the earliest. Impaired pulmonary function may that affect possibility upper extremity exercise capacity and muscle oxygen metabolism should be investigated in patients with CF.