A Randomized Control Study of Effectiveness of Aerobic Exercise Training and Balance Training on Balance in Patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Abstract

Background: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes that can lead to significant balance issues, increasing the risk of falls and associated morbidity. Exercise is known to mitigate these complications, yet the comparative effectiveness of different exercise modalities remains underexplored. Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of aerobic exercise training compared to balance training and traditional balance exercises in improving balance among patients with DPN. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted at Mayo Hospital, Lahore, with 60 patients diagnosed with DPN, divided equally into three groups: Group A (aerobic exercise), Group B (balance training), and Group C (traditional balance exercises). Each group received interventions three times weekly for four weeks. Balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) pre- and post-intervention. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with paired t-tests and one-way ANOVA to evaluate treatment effects. Results: Post-treatment BBS scores showed significant improvement across all groups (p < 0.001). Group A exhibited the greatest improvement, with mean scores increasing from 47.20 to 52.65. Group B's scores increased from 43.95 to 48.25, while Group C showed the least improvement, from 43.95 to 46.80. Conclusion: Aerobic exercise significantly enhances balance in DPN patients compared to balance training and traditional exercises, highlighting its potential as a primary intervention strategy.