Evaluation of the Physical Fitness of the Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Necessity for the Prescription of Adapted Physical Activity

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus and physical inactivity are modifiable risk factors for stroke. Physical activity is one of the pillars of type 2 diabetes management. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physical fitness of a sample of type 2 diabetes patients at the CHU of Martinique (UHCM). Patients and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study, from 1st June to 30th September 2018. It consisted of the exhaustive prospective collection of data on the usual physical activity and physical fitness of type 2 diabetic patients hospitalized in the Endocrinology department of the UHCM for a short stay. The physical fitness tests of the French National Olympic and Sports Committee, validated on 13 April 2013, were used. Results: Thirty patients were included in the study. The mean age was 51.9 ± 11 years. The sex ratio was 1.5, and hypertension in 53% (n = 16) of patients was the most associated risk factor. The median duration of diabetes progression was 4 years with Q1 and Q2 quantiles of 2 and 10 years, respectively. The physical fitness evaluation noted a balance disorder with a risk of falling in 56.7% (n = 17) of patients, muscle stiffness in 20% (n = 6) of them, while 56.7% (n = 17) and 80% (n = 24) had a decrease in the muscular strength of the upper and lower limbs, respectively. The distance covered during the standard 6 min walking test was normal for 70% (n = 21) of the patients. Conclusion: The evaluation of the patient’s physical fitness allows us to assess their deconditioning to physical activity and other obstacles to physical activity to plan appropriate interventions.