Physical performance and body composition
The physical performance test was performed at the time of enrollment and three months later in both patient groups. Handgrip strength was measured immediately before the dialysis session. Patients performed three tests of maximum hand grip strength with the hand without vascular access using a Jamar hand dynamometer (Sammons Preston Inc., Bolingbrook, IL, USA). Slow walking speed was assessed by measuring gait speed over a 4 m course [