Aerobic training effects on knee joint laxity and estrogen levels in post-menopausal women with type 2 diabetes: a
Firouzeh Dehghan1, Rahman Soori2
1Department of Sport Sciences, Kish International Campus, University of Tehran, Kish Island, Iran.
Purpose:
Chronic high blood sugar in diabetic individuals often leads to severe complications affecting vital organs, including heart disease, neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy. These complications share similarities with menopause symptoms, yet limited research exists on menopause's impact specifically in women with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Menopause, marked by a significant decline in sex hormone levels, can alter glucose metabolism and increase diabetes risk. Research indicates that sex hormones, particularly estradiol, play a crucial role in glucose regulation and insulin sensitivity. Hormone fluctuations have also been linked to knee joint laxity, which can affect knee stability and injury risk.
Objective:
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 16-week aerobic training program on knee joint laxity and sex steroid hormone levels in post-menopausal women with T2D.
Methods:
Sixty-three women with T2D participated in a double-blind study, randomly assigned to either an aerobic training group (n = 32) or a control group (n = 31). The aerobic training group underwent 60-minute sessions of moderate-intensity jogging three times per week for 16 weeks. Knee joint laxity was assessed using varus /valgus stress tests, while serum levels of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and relaxin were measured before, at 8 weeks, and after 16 weeks of training.
Results:
At the end of the 16 weeks, the aerobic training group showed significant increases in serum estrogen levels and reduced knee joint laxity compared to pre-test levels and the control group. No significant changes were observed in progesterone, testosterone, or relaxin levels. The training resulted in increased knee stiffness and improved knee stability, potentially decreasing the risk of knee strain injuries.
Conclusion:
The study concludes that 16 weeks of aerobic training can enhance knee joint stiffness and increase estrogen levels in post-menopausal women with T2D, potentially reducing the risk of knee injuries. Aerobic training may be incorporated into T2D management to enhance knee stability and reduce injury risk.
Supplementary Information:
The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-025-01679-5.
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