The comparison of 6 minutes walking test variables and anaerobic capacity in children fibrosis and healthy children

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine and compare parameters of functional exercise capacity measured by 6-minute walking test (6MWT) and walking variables and anaerobic capacities measured by vertical jump test and Wingate Anaerobic Capacity Test (WAnT) in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) and healthy children. Method: 21 CF and 21 healthy individuals participated in the study. Demographic characteristics and symptoms of the participants were recorded. Body composition was evaluated using Tanita-BC 418 device. Pulmonary function was assessed by Pulmonary Function Test. Posture analysis form was used for posture assessment. Peripheral muscle strength (knee extension and hand grip strength) was measured using hand-held dynamometer and hand dynamometer. Respiratory muscle strength (MIP-MEP) was assessed by electronic mouth pressure measuring instrument. The functional exercise capacity and time-distance parameters of gait were evaluated using G-Walk accelerometer during 6 MWT and 7 meter walking test. Anaerobic capacity were measured with Wingate Anaerobic Capacity Test (WAnT) and Vertical Jump Test using G-Walk accelerometer. Results: Pulmonary function test, MIP, 6-minute walking distance, average speed, step length, vertical jump height, peak speed, take-off force, impact force and maximum concentric power parameters were significantly lower in CF group compare to healthy children (p<0.05). Total posture analysis scores of healthy individuals were significantly lower compare to CF individuals (p<0.05). High correlation was found between fat free mass, BMI, knee extensor, hand grip muscle strengths and vertical jump, WAnT parameters (p<0.05). High level of correlation was found between the parameters obtained from WAnT and vertical jump parameters (p<0.05). Conclusion: Respiratory functions, posture, anaerobic capacity and functional exercise capacity are affected in CF individuals with mild disease severity. The vertical jump test that used in our study is an easy and effective test to evaluate and compare healthy children and children with CF. Further studies should examine the validity and reliability of G-Walk accelerometer by evaluating more individuals in CF group. Key words: Cystic Fibrosis, Walking Variables, Anaerobic Capacity