Physical Exercise After Solid Organ Transplantation: A Cautionary Tale

Abstract

An increasing body of randomized controlled trials suggests the safety of engaging in moderate to vigorous intensity exercise training following solid organ transplantation. Fueled by emerging sport events designed for transplant recipients and the ever-growing body of research highlighting the diverse health benefits of physical activity, transplant recipients are now increasingly participating in strenuous and occasionally competitive physical endeavors that largely surpass those evaluated in controlled research settings. This viewpoint article adopts a cautionary stance to counterbalance the prevalent one-sided optimistic perspective regarding posttransplant physical activity. While discussing methodological limitations, we explore plausible adverse impacts on the cardiovascular, immunological, and musculoskeletal systems. We also examine the physiological consequences of exercising in the heat, at high altitude, and in areas with high air pollution. Risks associated with employing performance-enhancing strategies and the conceivable psychological implications regarding physical activity as a tribute to the ‘gift of life’ are discussed. With a deliberate focus on the potential adverse outcomes of strenuous posttransplant physical activity, this viewpoint aims to restore a balanced dialogue on our comprehension of both beneficial and potentially detrimental outcomes of physical activity that ultimately underscores the imperative of well-informed decision-making and tailored exercise regimens in the realm of posttransplant care.

Supporting transplant athletes: perspectives on delivery of a sports performance and well-being service at the British Transplant Games

“…Moreover, competitors can register to play a sport they have never played before. Health vulnerabilities of transplant recipients ( 11 ) can mean interruptions to physical activity levels and competition ( 8 ); making it difficult to measure performance across time. Constraints aside, the goal was to offer a flexible service delivery model tailored to this client group's needs.…”

“…Solid organ transplant surgery (e.g., heart, kidney, lung, liver, pancreas) and hematopoietic cell transplants (e.g., bone marrow) are life-saving surgical procedures ( 1 , 2 ). Recent research ( 3 – 5 ) and clinical guidelines ( 6 ) suggest that returning to an active lifestyle post-transplant may have a positive impact on the health and quality of life of transplant recipients ( 7 , 8 ). An opportunity to be more active could be participation in the national and international network of Transplant Games.…”