Effects of a 12-week lower limb resistance training with breathing regulation in patients with diabetes-related foot ulcers: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Patients with diabetes-related foot ulcers may require hospitalization and face an increased risk of amputation, which can significantly impact their quality of life. One potential solution is exercise, which can regulate blood glucose levels, improve wound healing, and enhance overall well-being. This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the impact of a lower limb resistance training program combined with breathing-regulation techniques on glycemic control, wound healing, and quality of life in patients with diabetes-related foot ulcers. Patients hospitalized for type 2 diabetes-related foot ulcers were recruited from a single medical center and randomly divided into two groups. The control group (n = 31) received standard treatment, while the exercise group (n = 28) received standard treatment along with lower limb resistance training and breathing-regulation techniques. Assessments of fasting blood glucose levels, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, wound healing, and quality of life were carried out at the start of the study and week 4, week 8, and week 12 of the intervention. The exercise group demonstrated significant improvements in fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels, as well as in physical health, psychological well-being, social relationships, and environmental aspects of quality of life over the 12 weeks compared to both the control group and the baseline (p < .05). However, no significant change was observed in wound healing (p > .05). The resistance training program for the lower limbs, combined with breathing-regulation techniques, is recommended for improving blood glucose levels and quality of life over 12 weeks.