Physical Deconditioning
Conditions
Brief summary
This study investigates low-load, cuff-assisted training to improve mitochondrial capacity. The intervention is carried out using automated pressure cuffs, applying an individualized pressure of 70% of the limb occlusion pressure. This approach reflects the current scientific consensus for safe and effective use in clinical populations. Within a rehabilitation setting, two training modalities are compared: intermittent strength training and alternating continuous endurance training. Muscle oxygen saturation is measured non-invasively using near-infrared spectroscopy.
Interventions
DIAGNOSTIC_TESTApplication of pressure cuffs during strength training
Pre/Post comparison of mitochondrial capacity of the m. vastus lateralis muscle and muscle morphology between the groups.
DIAGNOSTIC_TESTApplication of pressure cuffs during endurance training
Pre/Post comparison of mitochondrial capacity of the m. vastus lateralis muscle and muscle morphology between the groups
DIAGNOSTIC_TESTConventional clinical rehabilitation program without the use of pressure cuffs
Pre/Post comparison of mitochondrial capacity of the m. vastus lateralis muscle and muscle morphology between the groups
Sponsors
Spital Thurgau AG
Study design
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Masking
NONE
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
18 Years to No maximum
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
Inclusion: * Medically confirmed generalized deconditioning with reduced muscle strength * Medical certification of suitability for functional lower-extremity strength training * Written informed consent after an adequate reflection period Exclusion: * Unstable arrhythmias, myocardial ischemia, symptomatic blood pressure drops or hypertension (\>160/100 mmHg despite medication) * History of thrombosis or acute swelling/skin discoloration of the legs * Dizziness, confusion, cyanosis, or unexplained fatigue * Participant's wish to withdraw or not participate
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame |
|---|---|
| Determination of changes in the mitochondrial capacity of skeletal muscle (of the thigh muscle, vastus lateralis; measured non-invasively) | From enrollment to the end of treatment at 6 weeks. |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum and maximum oxygen saturation (SmO₂) during application of pressure cuffs (measured via NIRS) | From enrollment to the end of treatment at 6 weeks. | — |
| Changes in total hemoglobin (tHb) as a measure of local blood volume (measured via NIRS) | From enrollment to the end of treatment at 6 weeks. | — |
| Assessment of subjective functional mobility using the "Lower Extremity Functional Scale" (LEFS) questionnaire | From enrollment to the end of treatment at 6 weeks. | Maximal Score: 80; Minimal Score: 0; Higher Score indicates better functional mobility |
Outcome results
None listed