OBJECTIVE: Distal symmetrical polyneuropathy (DSPN) is a common neurological sequela following HIV which leads to neuropathic pain and functional limitations. Rehabilitation programs with exercises are used to augment pharmacological therapy to relieve pain but appropriate and effective exercises are unknown. This study explored the safety and effect of moderate intensity aerobic exercises (AE) and progressive resisted exercises (PRE) for HIV-induced DSPN neuropathic pain. DESIGN: A randomized pre-test, post-test of 12 weeks of AE or PRE compared to a control. Outcome measures were assessed using the Subjective Periphery Neuropathy, Brief Peripheral Neuropathy Screening and Numeric Pain Rating Scale. Pain was assessed at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks. Data between groups were compared using Kruskal Wallis, Mann Whitney U test and within groups Friedman and Wilcoxon Signed Rank tests. RESULTS: There were 136 participants (mean age 36.79 +/- 8.23 years) and the exercise groups completed the protocols without any adverse effects. Pain scores within and between AE and PRE groups showed significant improvement (p < 0.05) from baseline to 6 and 12 weeks compared to the control (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study supports a rehabilitation program of moderate intensity AE and PRE being safe and effective for reducing neuropathic pain and is beneficial with analgesics for HIV-induced DSPN.

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