Cardiovascular conditioning in individuals with diabetic retinopathy

The benefit of exercise for individuals with diabetes mellitus and high-risk complications of retinopathy has been questioned. Thirty-nine individuals with diabetes and visual impairment completed a 12-wk rehabilitation program that included cardiovascular conditioning. Pre- and postprogram assessment of exercise training in 30 subjects included a graded stress test with a bicycle ergometer. There were improvements in exercise tolerance as measured by the work load achieved (from 248 +/- 27 to 303 +/- 31 kilopond meter [kpm], P less than .05). There was a trend toward improvement in METS achieved (from 3.3 +/- 0.2 to 3.8 +/- 0.3, P = .06). There was no correlation of improvement in exercise tolerance with improvements in glycemic control, lipoprotein balance, and change in body weight. Individuals with diabetic retinopathy may be given the option of entering cardiovascular training programs with appropriate modifications to fit specific needs.