Effect of resistance training on posture control components in women with diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Background: Peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes which can lead to impaired postural control. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of 12-week resistance training on balance, risk of falling and distribution of foot pressure in diabetic women with peripheral neuropathy.

Methods: In a randomized clinical trial, 30 women with type 2 diabetes and diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy were randomly assigned into experimental (n=15) and control (n=15) groups. The experimental group underwent a circuit resistance training program with 50 of one-maximum repetition, 3 -sessions per week over 12 weeks. Before and following the experimental period static and dynamic balance, posture control and risk of falling were assessed.

Results: Static and dynamic balance indices improved following the exercise intervention (P=0.0001). Moreover, risk of falling index decreased in the experimental group compared to control condition (P=0.0001). However, foot pressure distribution was unchanged following exercise intervention (P>0.05).

Conclusion: Circuit training improved balance and risk of falling in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy. Therefore, they are suggested to include circuit training as a safe non-pharmacological intervention to improve balance and walking and to prevent falling.