Heat Therapy in Type 2 Diabetes

Our objective in this proposal is to conduct a pilot randomized, sham-controlled trial to establish the feasibility, acceptability, and safety of home-based leg HT for 12 weeks in older individuals with T2D. We will also examine changes in glucose regulation, body composition, blood pressure, skeletal muscle strength, and physical function. Individuals will be asked to apply the treatment daily for 90 min using water-circulating sleeves perfused with warm water Our working hypotheses are that diabetic individuals receiving HT will manifest: 1) improved blood glucose regulation, 2) enhanced leg strength and power, 3) lower body fat content, and 4) improved walking tolerance21 and lower blood pressure. We propose the following specific aims: AIM 1: Establish the feasibility of home-based HT for older individuals with T2D. The primary outcomes are compliance with the HT regimen, measured by a hidden timer, completion rates, device safety, and usability. AIM 2: Examine the effects of HT on blood glucose regulation in older adults with T2D. We will assess the change in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and insulin sensitivity index (Matsuda insulin sensitivity index) between baseline and the 12-week follow-up. Glucose, insulin, and HbA1c will be measured in the Translation Core. AIM 3: Evaluate the effect of HT on lower-extremity functioning and body composition in older adults with T2D. We will assess changes in walking endurance (6-minute walk distance), leg muscle strength and power (isokinetic dynamometry), lower extremity functioning (Short Physical Performance Battery), and body composition (Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry).