Assessing the Effects of Electrical Muscle Stimulation and Resistance Training on Regulation of HbA1c and Plasma Glucose in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: An Experimental Study

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common metabolic condition that places a major health and financial burden on individuals and healthcare systems worldwide. Maintaining good glycemic control, particularly through measures such as HbA1c and blood glucose levels, is essential for reducing the risk of long-term complications. Although resistance training is widely recommended for diabetes management, it may not be suitable for people with limited mobility or multiple comorbidities. This study compared the effects of Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) and Resistance Training (RT) on glycemic outcomes in individuals with T2DM.

Methods: Sixty-six participants with T2DM were randomly allocated to one of three groups: EMS, RT, or control, with 22 participants in each group. The EMS group received 30-minute stimulation sessions three times per week for 12 weeks. The RT group completed supervised progressive resistance exercises targeting the major lower-limb muscles on the same schedule. The control group received education on diet, exercise, and blood glucose management. HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, and postprandial glucose were measured at baseline, after 12 weeks, and again at 3-month follow-up.

Results: Both intervention groups showed significant improvements in glycemic control compared with the control group. HbA1c fell from 8.77 to 7.59 in the EMS group and from 8.73 to 8.05 in the RT group, while it increased from 8.91 to 9.41 in controls. Fasting and postprandial glucose levels also improved significantly in both intervention groups.

Conclusion: Both EMS and RT were effective, with EMS showing stronger and more sustained benefits in this study.