Tongkat Ali as a potential herbal supplement for physically active male and female seniors--a pilot study.

Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia; TA) is known to increase testosterone levels and alleviate aging males' symptoms. This study aimed at investigating TA as an ergogenic supplement for elderly people. Thirteen physically active male and 12 physically active female seniors (57-72 years) were supplemented with 400-mg TA extract daily for 5 weeks. Standard hematological parameters were taken. In addition, the concentrations of total and free testosterone, dihydroepiandrosterone, cortisol, insulin-like growth factor-1, and sex hormone-binding globulin were analyzed. As additional biochemical parameters, blood urea nitrogen and creatine kinase as parameters of kidney function and muscle damage, respectively, as well as the muscle strength by a simple handgrip test were determined. After treatment, hemoglobin, testosterone, and dihydroepiandrosterone concentrations, and the ratio of total testosterone/cortisol and muscle force remained significantly lower in female seniors than in male seniors. Hematocrit and erythrocyte count in male seniors increased slightly but were significantly higher than in female seniors. Treatment resulted in significant increases in total and free testosterone concentrations and muscular force in men and women. The increase in free testosterone in women is thought to be due to the significant decline in sex hormone-binding globulin concentrations. The study affirms the ergogenic benefit of TA through enhanced muscle strength.

Effects of an isometric exercise training program on muscular strength, ankle mobility, and balance in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy in the lower legs in South Africa.

Background: Patients who suffer from diabetic peripheral neuropathy in the lower leg experience a greater risk of falls due to a decrease in strength of the lower extremities. Methods: Fourteen participants, diagnosed with diabetic peripheral neuropathy or nocturnal allodynia in either one or both extremities, volunteered to participate in this study. Participants were purposively selected from two private Podiatry practices based on their signs and symptoms, age, gender, and doctor's clearance to participate in any form of physical activity. Dependent variables included isometric muscle strength of the hip, knee and ankle, range of motion of the ankle in plantarflexion and dorsiflexion and an assessment of balance, which were measured pre- and post-intervention. The researcher developed a scientifically based exercise intervention program to target the entire kinetic chain, and to develop a standard isometric protocol for patients with DPN. The intervention program consisted of a combination of ankle, hip, and knee specific rehabilitation. The intervention took place 3 times a week for 45 min per session. Results: The Mann-Whitney test was used to evaluate the differences in dependent variables from pre- to post-intervention. The level of significance was set at p<0.05. Notable increases were observed in range of motion in ankle plantarflexion and in balance time in the intervention group, post-intervention. Conclusions: Although many of the changes noted were insignificant, the trends indicated an improvement in the intervention group over the 10-week intervention period. These improvements can be considered clinically important.

Corrigendum: Novel coronavirus and regular physical activity involvement: Opinion.

No abstract available.

Novel coronavirus and regular physical activity involvement: Opinion.

The novel coronavirus (NCOVID-19) has quickly become a public health concern globally and needs urgent attention. While there is no current evidence of vaccines and specific drugs to prevent and treat the ailments emanating from NCOVID-19 infections, complementary and conventional medical treatments could prove beneficial in ameliorating some of the respiratory difficulties, especially in countries in sub-Saharan Africa. These treatments include specific breathing exercises, a diet that strengthens the immune system, as well as avoiding tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption. On the other hand, for those who have not contracted the virus, participation in indoor and within-the-yard physical activity could be beneficial in preventing unwanted weight gain as well as associated conditions such as anxiety and depression.