Resistive Training Improves Insulin Sensitivity after Stroke

This study determined the effects of unilateral resistive training (RT) of both the paretic and nonparetic legs on insulin sensitivity in stroke survivors.Methods: We studied 10 participants (mean age 65 ± 2 years; mean body mass index 27 ± 4 kg/m2) with hemiparetic gait after remote (>6 months) ischemic stroke. All subjects underwent 1-repetition maximum (1-RM) strength testing, 9 had an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and 7 completed a 2-hour hyperglycemic clamp (with glucose elevation targeted at 98 mg/dL above baseline fasting level) before and after 12 weeks (3×/week) of progressive, high repetition, high-intensity RT. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorbtiometry in all participants.Results: Leg press and leg extension 1-RM increased in the paretic leg by 22% (P < .05) and 45% (P < .01), respectively. Fasting insulin decreased 23% (P < .05), with no change in fasting glucose. The 16% reduction in OGTT insulin area under the curve (AUC) across training was not statistically significant (P = .18). There was also no change in glucose AUC. First-phase insulin response during the hyperglycemic clamp (0-10 minutes) decreased 24% (P 
Source: Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases - Category: Neurology Authors: Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research