Using resistance training and creatine to improve physical function in colorectal cancer survivors with muscle loss
Official title: The Feasibility and Acceptability of Resistance Training and Creatine Supplementation to Promote Physical Function in Sarcopenic Colorectal Cancer Survivors
Funded at University of South Carolina at Columbia · NIH-10867353 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether doing strength training along with taking creatine can help colorectal cancer survivors who are losing muscle strength and mass feel better and move easier after their treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $159,474 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA281951-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10867353 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are colorectal cancer survivors who are experiencing sarcopenia and are looking to improve their physical function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not colorectal cancer survivors or those without sarcopenia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how combining resistance training with creatine supplementation can help colorectal cancer survivors who are experiencing sarcopenia, which is the loss of muscle mass and function. The study will assess the feasibility and acceptability of this combined approach compared to resistance training alone. Participants will engage in a randomized controlled trial to evaluate how these interventions can enhance their physical function and overall well-being after cancer treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve physical function and quality of life for colorectal cancer survivors suffering from muscle loss.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that creatine supplementation can effectively enhance the benefits of resistance training in older adults and clinical populations, indicating a promising approach for this study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Carolina at Columbia
Columbia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fairman, Ciaran — University of South Carolina at Columbia
- Study coordinator: Fairman, Ciaran
Related research
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.