Date of Award

2025-08-01

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Kinesiology

Advisor(s)

Sudip Bajpeyi

Abstract

Introduction: Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) has shown promise in improving glycemic outcomes in supervised, laboratory-based settings. However, its feasibility and effectiveness in real-world, community-based applications remain underexplored, particularly among sedentary, overweight/obese individuals at risk for type 2 diabetes (T2D). This study aims to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of self-administered NMES use on glycemic control and substrate utilization among sedentary, overweight/obese population with hyperglycemia. Methods: Ten participants (N=10 [Males:4; Females:6] Age: 38.9 ± 14.1 years; BMI: 36.0 ± 8.7 kg/m2) sedentary Overweight/obese participants with hyperglycemia were randomized to either an NMES or control group and were trained and instructed to self-administer NMES at home (minimum of 30 minutes/session, 3 sessions/week) for 8 weeks. Additionally, participants underwent an acute session of NMES during week 1 and week 8 when glucose levels, energy expenditure and respiratory exchange ratio (RER) were assessed in a laboratory setting. Feasibility was assessed through adherence to NMES protocol, device-recorded stimulation data, and user satisfaction surveys. Glycemic control was evaluated using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and HbA1c. Results: A single 30-minute NMES session significantly reduced post-stimulation glucose levels. Energy expenditure significantly increased during NMES (p < 0.05), and no significant changes were observed in RER (p > 0.05). Glycemic variability and time above range were significantly lower on the day of stimulation compared to control day (p<0.05). Additionally, 24-hour average glucose level (p= 0.1) and high glucose excursion (p = 0.08) tended to be lower on the day of the stimulation compared to the day without the stimulation. Retention was 100%, with 90% adhering to the prescribed minimum stimulation protocol. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction, comfort, and confidence with using NMES independently. Conclusion: Acute NMES application suggests beneficial effects on glycemic regulation and metabolic demand, supporting its potential as a non-pharmacological strategy for improving glycemic control in population who are sedentary, and overweight/obese. Preliminary data indicates that self-administered NMES is a feasible and well-accepted intervention among individuals with hyperglycemia in a free-living condition.

Language

en

Provenance

Received from ProQuest

File Size

69 p.

File Format

application/pdf

Rights Holder

Zahra Fatahimeiabadi

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Kinesiology Commons

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