Better mobility
- Published in
- NEJM 2012
- People studied
- 5,016
In a trial of 5,145 adults with type 2 diabetes, a weight-loss and activity programme meant a 48% lower risk of losing mobility over 4 years.
- Checked against
- PubMed 22455415
- Published in
- NEJM 2012
- Last checked
- 30 October 2026
Key takeaway
The Look AHEAD trial randomly put 5,145 adults aged 45 to 74 with overweight or obesity and type 2 diabetes in an intensive lifestyle programme or in diabetes education. After 4 years, 38.5% of the programme group reported good mobility, against 31.9%, and 20.6% had severe limits, against 26.2%. Both weight loss and better fitness helped explain the difference.
At a glance
- Type of study
- randomised trial
- People studied
- 5,016
- How long
- 4 years
- Compared with
- a diabetes support and education programme
- Main result
- 48% lower risk of losing mobility over 4 years.
- Strength of evidence
- Randomised trials
What this study does not show
Mobility was reported by the participants themselves, and everyone had type 2 diabetes. Muscle and joint complaints were slightly more common in the programme group in the first year.
Results from studies in groups of people, mostly in diet and movement programmes. They cannot be promised to any one person. This information is educational and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.
More on joints
- Less load on the kneeLong-term or observational studies · Messier et al., Arthritis Rheum 2005
- Lower risk of knee arthritisLong-term or observational studies · Felson et al., Ann Intern Med 1992
- Easier movementRandomised trials · Christensen et al., Ann Rheum Dis 2007
- Less knee painRandomised trials · Messier et al., JAMA 2013
- Slightly less knee painRandomised trials · Messier et al., JAMA 2022
- Better mobilityRandomised trials · Rejeski et al., NEJM 2012
- More weight lost, more reliefSmall or uncontrolled studies · Atukorala et al., Arthritis Care Res 2016
The next step is a conversation, not a decision
A licensed doctor decides whether any treatment is right for you. The answer can also be no treatment.
1You fill in a short form
2We call you within 24 hours
3A paid 20-minute video consultation with a doctor
4The doctor goes through your options and decides what is right for you