Effects of resistance training on oxidative stress markers and muscle damage in spinal cord injured rats

Abstract

Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a condition that affects the central nervous system, is characterized by motor and sensory impairments, and impacts individuals’ lives. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of resistance training on oxidative stress and muscle damage in spinal cord injured rats. Methodology: Forty Wistar rats were selected and divided equally into five groups: Healthy Control (CON), Sham (SHAM) SCI Untrained group (SCI-U), SCI Trained group (SCI-T), SCI Active Trained group (SCI-AT). Animals in the trained groups were submitted to an incomplete SCI at T9. Thereafter, they performed a protocol of resistance training for four weeks. Results: Significant differences in muscle damage markers and oxidative stress in the trained groups, mainly in SCI-AT, were found. On the other hand, SCI-U group presented higher levels of oxidative stress and biomarkers of LDH and AST. Conclusion: The results highlight that resistance training promoted a decrease in oxidative stress and a significative response in muscle damage markers.