Creatine or vitamin D supplementation in individuals with a spinal cord injury undergoing resistance training: A double-blinded, randomized pilot trial

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2018 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2017.1372058 · Published: July 1, 2018

Spinal Cord Injury Nutrition & Dietetics Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates whether taking creatine or vitamin D supplements can help people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) get stronger while they do resistance training. The study found that creatine might help improve muscle strength in these individuals. Also, many people with SCI have low levels of vitamin D. The researchers suggest that people with SCI should have their vitamin D levels checked when they start physical rehabilitation.

Study Duration

8 weeks

Participants

14 (13 male, 1 female) with spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Level II: Double-blinded, randomized pilot trial

Key Findings

1
Creatine supplementation may improve muscle strength parameters in individuals with spinal cord injury.
2
Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in individuals with spinal cord injury.
3
There was a significant correlation (p<0.05) between the one repetition maximum Pec deck and levels of vitamin D.

Research Summary

The study aimed to determine if creatine or vitamin D supplementation enhances muscle strength in individuals with SCI undergoing resistance training. The results showed that creatine supplementation may improve muscle strength parameters, and vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in the SCI population. The study recommends initial screening of vitamin D levels at the beginning of physical rehabilitation for individuals with SCI.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Programs

Supplementation with creatine can be included in rehabilitation programs to improve muscle strength for individuals with SCI.

Vitamin D Screening

Vitamin D levels should be screened at the beginning of physical rehabilitation for individuals with SCI to address potential deficiencies.

Nutritional Guidelines

Nutritional guidelines for individuals with SCI should consider creatine and vitamin D supplementation to enhance lean body mass gains.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size
2
Heterogeneity of the sample, type and time of injury
3
Some participants were not able to perform all the physical tests and assessments due to specific limitations

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