Three cases of disuse syndrome patients who improved by KAATSU training®

Abstract

[Objective]To determine the effects of KAATSU training on disuse syndrome.[Methods]A 6- to 12-minute KAATSU training session consisting of three different motions was implemented in 3 patients using a KAATSU training instrument manufactured by Sato Sports Plaza Co., Ltd. twice weekly for 2 to 4 months. Muscle mass, muscular strength, and physical performance were evaluated using a bioelectrical impedance analyzer, a grip dynamometer, and the Timed UP and Go test (TUG test), respectively, before and after KAATSU training. Growth hormone (GH) levels were measured in 2 patients.[Results]After KAATSU training, muscle mass increased in all 3 patients, by 12%, 4.5%, and 3.3%, respectively; grip strength also increased in all 3 patients by 6%, 50%, and 8.3%, respectively. Although TUG time shortened in 1 patient, TUG test was discontinued in the other 2 patients because of knee pain or a fall during measurement. The GH levels rose 5 and 10 fold in the 2 patients measured, compared with the levels obtained before KAATSU training.[Conclusion]KAATSU training ensures early muscle strengthening, and is expected to be valuable for the prevention and treatment of not only disuse syndrome, but also sarcopenia.