Diabetic Polyneuropathy
Conditions
Keywords
Feldenkrais Method, Postural Control, Diabetic Polyneuropathy
Brief summary
Background: Postural Control is a major complication of polyneuropathy, affecting patients suffering from diabetes mellitus. Purpose: To examine the effect of the Feldenkrais Method on dynamic balance, limits of stability and fear of falling in adults aged 45 to 60 years with diabetic polyneuropathy in the short and mid-term. Methods: A single-blinded, parallel, multicentric randomized control trial was conducted in two health centers. Adults aged 45 to 60 years with diabetic polyneuropathy and a history of falls or dynamic balance dysfunction were recruited from hospital databases and randomly assigned to either the study or control group. The study group received 16 sessions of Feldenkrais-based sensorimotor training. Both groups received diabetic foot care instructions and traditional balance exercises. Outcomes were measured at 3 and 6-month follow-up intervals. Dynamic balance was assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test, limits of stability using Biodex and fear of falling with the Falls Efficacy Scale (FES).
Interventions
OTHERThe Feldenkrais-based intervention
The Feldenkrais-based intervention consisted of guided awareness exercises aimed at improving movement patterns, proprioception, and postural control. Sessions were conducted twice weekly for 12 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 45 minutes
OTHERconventional balance training program
a conventional balance training program consisting of static and dynamic balance exercises, gait training, and strength-building activities, matched for session frequency and duration
Sponsors
Cairo University
Study design
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE (Investigator)
Intervention model description
The Feldenkrais-based intervention consisted of guided awareness exercises aimed at improving movement patterns, proprioception, and postural control. Sessions were conducted twice weekly for 12 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 45 minutes.
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
45 Years to 60 Years
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
* Individuals must have a diagnosis of Diabetic Polyneuropathy (DPN), confirmed by clinical examination and electrophysiological testing. * Participants must have stable glycemic control for at least three months prior to enrollment. * Individuals must be able to walk independently, with or without the use of an assistive device.
Exclusion criteria
* Individuals with severe visual or vestibular impairments are excluded from participation. * Participants with significant musculoskeletal disorders affecting gait are not eligible. * Individuals with severe cardiovascular or respiratory conditions are excluded. * Participants with cognitive impairments that prevent active participation are not eligible. * Individuals currently engaged in structured physical therapy or balance training programs are excluded.
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamic Balance | From enrollment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks | Assessed using the Timed Up and Go Test, which measures the time taken to stand from a seated position, walk three meters, turn around, walk back, and sit down. |
| Postural Control | From enrollment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks | Evaluated using the Biodex Balance System, which measures limits of stability and sway index |
| Fear of Falling | From enrollment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks | Assessed using the Falls Efficacy Scale, a self-reported measure of confidence in performing daily activities without falling. |
Countries
Egypt
Outcome results
None listed