fa پزشکی Medicine پژوهشی Original Introduction: The arteriovenous (AV) fistula is a gold standard method for safe and effective<br> repeated vascular access for patients on hemodialysis (HD). The patients, with AV-fistula access in<br> their upper limb, have some limitations in using the involved limb both in daily living and during the<br> dialysis process. The aim of this study was to compare range of motion (ROM), muscle strength and<br> arm circumference of fistula created limb with the contralateral upper limb.<br> Material and Methods: 23 patients (50-85 year), receiving HD through AV fistula in one of their<br> upper limbs, at least for 3 months, were enrolled. ROM, muscle strength, and arm circumference of<br> both upper limbs were measured using goniometer, dynamometer and tape-measure, respectively.<br> Then the values of the both sides were compared together.<br> Results: In ROM tests shoulder forward flexion, backward extension, internal rotation, external<br> rotation, horizontal extension, and horizontal adduction, and in muscle strength tests shoulder<br> abduction and hand grip were significantly (p<0.05) more limited or weaker at the fistula side. Arm<br> circumference was significantly greater at the fistula created limb.<br> Conclusion: The upper limb, which is involved during HD process, is weaker and has more limited<br> ROM in comparison with the contralateral limb. We suggest more attention to develop specific<br> exercise programs for maintaining the abilities of the limb with AV-fistula access. Hemodialysis, Arteriovenous fistula, Range of motion, Muscle strength 0 0 http://pajoohande.sbmu.ac.ir/browse.php?a_code=A-10-1-990&slc_lang=fa&sid=1