Efficacy of Aerobic Exercise on Exercise Capacity and Quality of Life in Hypothyroidism Females: An Interventional Study

Background and Purpose: Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder prevalent globally and its more common in women. It affects muscular endurance and exercise capacity. Engaging in aerobic exercise impact health by influencing wellbeing, mortality, morbidity, hence quality of life. In aerobic activities walking is a widely practiced and effective for which further research is needed to establish the optimal duration and intensity. Methodology: The study was conducted on 70 Hypothyroidism females aged 20-65 year who divided in Group A (Experimental n=35) and Group B (Control n=35). Four weeks of Aerobic exercise programme was given in Group A and Regular walking was given in Group B which is control group. Six Minute Walk Distance and SF 12 were assessed in both the group before and after intervention. Results: Shapiro-Wilk test shows normal distribution so parametric tests Paired t-test and Unpaired t-test were applied for within group analysis and between group analysis respectively. Group A Shows significant difference in 6MWD (p<0.001). While Group B shows no any significant difference in 6MWD (p =0.300). In Group A, PCS and MCS shows significant difference (p<0.001). While in Group B, PCS (p =0.221) and MCS (p =0.778) shows no any statistically difference in within group analysis. In between group analysis pre and post intervention there was statistically difference in 6MWD (p<0.001) and PCS and MCS (p<0.001). Conclusion: Aerobic exercise with Brisk walking shows significant improvement in Exercise capacity and quality of life in hypothyroidism females. Key words: Aerobic exercise, Exercise Capacity, 6MWT, Quality of life, Hypothyroidism, Brisk walking