Arm crank exercise increases VO₂ peak and reduces body fat mass in older adult with chronic paraplegia

Objective: The purpose of this case study was to investigate the effects of sixteen weeks of arm crank activity on oxygen consumption in a geriatric gentleman with chronic paraplegia. Design: A 62-year-old man with chronic T8-9 ASIA Impairment Scale A paraplegia participated in arm crank exercise for 60 minutes per day, five days per week for sixteen weeks. Graded arm cycling was used to measure peak oxygen consumption (VO₂ peak) before and after the exercise program. Body composition was determined using a four-compartment model. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, hydrodensitometry, and deuterium dilution measures were assessed before and after the sixteen weeks of training to determine changes in body composition. Results: General fitness improved as demonstrated by an increase in VO₂ peak. Body composition was altered as indicated by a reduction in total body weight, decreased fat mass, and a reduced body mass index (BMI) score. Conclusion: The results of this case study demonstrate that regular volitional arm crank cycling can have positive effects on the general fitness and body composition of an elderly gentleman with chronic paraplegia. These results indicate that arm crank cycling is a viable physical activity and may assist in the prevention of secondary conditions related to a sedentary lifestyle and obesity.