The effects of seated exercise training on cardiorespiratory fitness in patients with diabetic foot ulcers: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Principle Investigators: Dr. Matthew McCarthy and Dr. David Webb
Due to the neuro-vascular complications of diabetes, up to 25% of diabetes patients will develop a foot ulcer during their lifespan. On diagnosis, patients are encouraged to offload (become non-weight bearing) on the affected foot in order to facilitate ulcer healing. This severely limits engagement in ambulatory movement, with restful sitting often deemed the only viable alternative.
Physical activity and exercise remain critical for optimal health in those with diabetes, yet keeping diabetic foot ulcer patients physically active while remaining off their feet is an area of research that is yet to be explored. The aim of the ‘SIT and be FIT’ study is to investigate the effects of a 12 week seated arm cycling intervention on cardio-respiratory fitness, body composition, metabolic health, physical function, quality of life and ulcer healing in patients with active diabetic foot ulceration.
We require 42 patients to complete this study (21 randomised to the Control Group – continuing their lives as normal, and a further 21 patients will be required to undertake a 12 week arm cycling intervention, aimed at completing three ≥30min moderate intensity arm cycling sessions each week.
The mortality rate of diabetic foot ulcer patients is in the region of 50% within five years of diagnosis, mostly due to cardio-vascular disease. As such, it is argued that the process of ‘offloading’ a diabetic foot ulcer is ‘saving limbs but not lives’. With the anticipated benefits of arm cycling, in conjunction to its offloaded nature, there may be potential to save both.
Where: This study takes place at the Leicester Diabetes Centre – Leicester General Hospital
Who: This study is recruiting adults (aged 18 – 75) who are actively receiving treatment for a diabetic foot ulcer (and have an HbA1c less than 10%).
Contact details: If you fall into this category and would like to know more about the study please contact the study team on 0116 258 4323 or email mm636@le.ac.uk
This study is funded by Diabetes UK and Novo Nordisk UK Research Foundation. This study is also supported by the NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre.