Aqua-Plyometric Exercises: Potential Implications for Bone Mineral Density, Functional Capacity, and Quality of Life in Survivors of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

Abstract Objective This study endeavored to explore the effect of an aquatic-based plyometric exercise program (Aqua-PLYO) on bone mineralization, functional capacity, and quality of life in survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Data Sources In a prospective, single-blinded quasi-experimental study, 30 survivors of childhood ALL (63.3% boys; age: 13.1 ± 2.8 years) were allocated to undergo the Aqua-PLYO exercise program (Aqua-PLYO group; n = 15) or the usual physical therapy (Control group; n = 15). Bone mineralization (bone mineral density [BMD], bone mineral content [BMC], BMD Z-score, and BMD volumetric [BMDvol]), functional capacity, and quality of life were assessed prior to, and following 36 treatment sessions, which were undertaken over nonconsecutive days in a 12-week program. With controlling for the pretreatment values, all measures of bone mineralization, functional capacity, and quality of life showed more favorable posttreatment improvement in the Aqua-PLYO group as compared to the control group (all P Conclusion The Aqua-PLYO exercises, besides the usual physical therapy, can effectively improve bone health, increase functional capacity, and promote a better quality of life in long-term survivors of childhood ALL. Implications for Nursing Practice Although survivors of childhood ALL experience reduced BMD, functional ability, and quality of life, Aqua-PLYO exercises can have positive effects on survivors’ physical and functional disturbances and can, even more, be enjoyable and increase their motivation and interest in engaging in exercise interventions.