INTRODUCTION: Individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), especially those with diabetic neuropathy, often experience restless legs syndrome (RLS), a sensorimotor neurological disorder which causes discomfort, impaired sleep, and reduced quality of life. While the symptoms of RLS can be improved by exercise, few studies have examined the effects of aerobic and strength training in this population. Therefore, the present study compares the effects of aerobic and resistance training on RLS severity, sleep quality, and daytime sleepiness in adults with T2DM. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A single-blinded randomized controlled trial was performed. Forty-two adults (aged 40 to 60 years) with T2DM >= 5 years and RLS based on International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG) criteria were recruited. Eligibility included lower limb strength >= 3+/5 and oral hypoglycemic therapy. Those with severe comorbidities, insulin therapy, injuries or other sleep disorders were excluded. Participants were randomized via sealed envelopes into aerobic (n = 21) or resistance (n = 21) training groups. Both underwent supervised exercise thrice weekly for six weeks. Outcomes were assessed using the International RLS Rating Scale (IRLS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Paired and independent t-tests were used for analysis. RESULTS: Data from 30 participants were analyzed. Groups were comparable at baseline (p > 0.05). Both groups showed significant within-group improvements in IRLS, PSQI, and ESS score (p < 0.05); the changes in IRLS and ESS exceeded minimal clinically-significant difference (MCID) thresholds, indicating clinical relevance. CONCLUSIONS: Aerobic and resistance training improved RLS symptoms, sleep quality, and daytime sleepiness in adults with T2DM, supporting exercise as beneficial non-pharmacological strategy.

Full text (sometimes free) may be available at these link(s):      help

• DOI
• publisher