Efficacy of Arm Ergometer Exercise on Glycaemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus- An Interventional Study

Introduction: Type-2 diabetes develops when the body’s natural metabolism is disrupted, which is marked by a decline in glucose tolerance over time. Diabetes mellitus is a dreadful condition specified by an increase in the concentration of glucose that influences the cardiovascular system, veins, arteries, vision, renal system, and ganglion over time. Arm ergometer is an upper body exercise apparatus that quantifies and standardises physical activity in terms of work output. Thus, it is well recognised as an essential component in the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Exercise has been demonstrated to aid glycaemic management in those at high risk of diabetes. The symptoms of peripheral artery disease, peripheral neuropathy, vision disturbances, renal disease, heart disease, cognitive impairment, and metabolic dysfunction are likely to worsen due to poor glycaemic control. Limited evidences on arm ergometer have shown its effectiveness on glycaemic control.

Aim: To find the efficacy of arm ergometer exercise on glycaemic control in patients with T2DM.

Materials and Methods: This interventional study will be conducted in the Diabetes Out Patient Department (OPD) of Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital, Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha from April 2022 to March 2023 after obtaining the ethical clearance. A total of 40 participants with T2DM will be recruited, and after baseline health parameter assessment like post-prandial blood glucose, Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and 6-minute walk test, the participant will perform arm ergometer exercise for 30 minutes for 5 days/week. All the parameters will be assessed again after 6 weeks. Frequency distribution will be calculated using Chi-square and pre and post data will be compared using student’s paired t-test.

Expected outcome: Arm ergometer exercise will be effective on glycaemic control in T2DM individual.