Abstract: FR-PO0409
STIM-HD: Exploring Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation for Sarcopenia in Haemodialysis
Session Information
- Dialysis: Measuring and Managing Symptoms and Syndromes
November 07, 2025 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Dialysis
- 801 Dialysis: Hemodialysis and Frequent Dialysis
Authors
- Quann, Niamh, University of Leicester, Leicester, England, United Kingdom
- Awan, Faizan, University of Leicester, Leicester, England, United Kingdom
- Burton, James, University of Leicester, Leicester, England, United Kingdom
- Cooper, Nicola, University of Leicester, Leicester, England, United Kingdom
- Dasgupta, Indranil, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, England, United Kingdom
- Skarabot, Jakob, Loughborough University, Loughborough, England, United Kingdom
- Watson, Emma L., University of Leicester, Leicester, England, United Kingdom
Background
Chronic kidney disease affects 10–12% of UK adults, with many requiring haemodialysis (HD). Sarcopenia, characterised by progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, is common in HD patients, contributing to increased morbidity and reduced quality of life. Traditional interventions such as resistance training often face adherence challenges. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) offers a potential alternative, using electrical impulses to activate muscles and replicate some of the benefits of exercise.
Methods
STIM-HD is a multi-centre, randomised controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of NMES in improving muscle strength and function in HD patients with sarcopenia. A total of 228 participants, aged ≥18 years, receiving HD for over three months and showing reduced handgrip strength (men <27 kg; women <16 kg), will be recruited across three UK sites.
Participants will be randomised (1:1) to either the intervention or control arm. The intervention group will receive NMES three times per week during dialysis for 12 weeks, with each session building up to 30 minutes. The control group will continue with standard care.
Exclusion criteria include contraindications to NMES (e.g. lower limb amputation, active skin infections, recent DVT), neuromuscular disease, active malignancy, planned change in dialysis modality, life expectancy <6 months, participation in conflicting trials, or inability to consent.
Results
Recruitment began in May 2025 and is expected to conclude by December 2026. The primary outcome will assess changes in isometric quadriceps strength. Secondary outcomes include muscle mass, physical function, and quality of life, with additional mechanistic investigations.
Conclusion
STIM-HD aims to generate robust evidence on NMES as a treatment for sarcopenia in the HD population, with potential to inform future clinical practice and guidelines.
Funding
- Government Support – Non-U.S.