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BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation

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Open Access 01-12-2016 | Research article

Maximal strength training as physical rehabilitation for patients with substance use disorder; a randomized controlled trial

Authors: Runar Unhjem, Grete Flemmen, Jan Hoff, Eivind Wang

Published in: BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation | Issue 1/2016

Abstract

Background

Patients with substance use disorder (SUD) suffer from multiple health and psychosocial problems. Because poor physical capacities following an inactive lifestyle may indeed contribute to these problems, physical training is often suggested as an attractive supplement to conventional SUD treatment. Strength training is shown to increase muscle strength and effectively improve health and longevity. Therefore we investigated the feasibility and effect of a maximal strength training intervention for SUD patients in clinical treatment.

Methods

16 males and 8 females were randomized into a training group (TG) and a control group (CG). The TG performed lower extremities maximal strength training (85-90 % of 1 repetition maximum (1RM)) 3 times a week for 8 weeks, while the CG participated in conventional clinical activities.

Results

The TG increased hack squat 1RM (88 ± 54 %), plantar flexion 1RM (26 ± 20 %), hack squat rate of force development (82 ± 29 %) and peak force (11 ± 5 %). Additionally, the TG improved neural function, expressed as voluntary V-wave (88 ± 83 %). The CG displayed no change in any physical parameters. The TG also reduced anxiety and insomnia, while the CG reduced anxiety.

Conclusion

Maximal strength training was feasible for SUD patients in treatment, and improved multiple risk factors for falls, fractures and lifestyle related diseases. As conventional treatment appears to have no effect on muscle strength, systematic strength training should be implemented as part of clinical practice.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02218970 (August 14, 2014).

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Title: Maximal strength training as physical rehabilitation for patients with substance use disorder; a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Runar Unhjem
Grete Flemmen
Jan Hoff
Eivind Wang
Publication date: 01-12-2016
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation / Issue 1/2016
Electronic ISSN: 2052-1847
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13102-016-0032-2

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Maximal strength training as physical rehabilitation for patients with substance use disorder; a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration

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