Effects of testosterone-augmented multimodal exercise intervention in spinal cord injury: a randomized controlled trial.
Kieran F Reid, Thomas W Storer, Karol M Pencina et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of a home-based multimodal exercise intervention combining functional electrical stimulation-assisted leg cycling, arm ergometry, and testosterone in 84 adults with spinal cord injury. The study found that the multimodality group experienced a significant increase in lean mass (1.84 kg) compared to the control group, although changes in aerobic capacity were not statistically significant.
Key findings
- The multimodality group gained significantly more whole-body lean mass (1.84 kg) compared to controls.
- Within-group peak VO2 increased by approximately 19% in the multimodality group versus 6% in controls.
- Anemia was corrected in a greater proportion of participants in the multimodality group.
- Adverse event rates were similar between the multimodality and control groups.
Why it matters
This study highlights the potential benefits of combining testosterone with exercise interventions for improving lean mass and correcting anemia in individuals with spinal cord injury, which may enhance overall health and quality of life.