The effects of an exercise and nutritional intervention on neuromuscular function, fatigue and quality of life in patients with colorectal cancer: a pilot studyProject by José Mira

Supervisors: Pr Guillaume MILLET & Dr Laurent GERGELÉ

Summary:

The main objective of this study is to investigate the effects of an innovative 12-week exercise intervention involving neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and eccentric exercise (ECC) for improving muscle mass and knee extensors maximum strength in individuals with colorectal cancer. The secondary objectives are to study the effects of this training program on (i) the fatigue resistance of this muscular group during an innovative fatiguing test, (ii) cancer-related fatigue (i.e. perceived fatigue) and (iii) the patient's quality of life. This project will also assess the impact of chemotherapy on perceived fatigue and resistance to muscle fatigue during exercise. This research will ultimately be translated into rehabilitation programs to minimize the fatigue of clinical populations, thereby improving the quality of life for patients.

Key words: colon cancer; rectal cancer; neuromuscular fatigue; subjective fatigue; eccentric exercise; resistance exercise, electrical stimulation.