Overview
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes, characterized by impaired sensory and motor function, often leading to balance dysfunction and an increased risk of falls. Additionally, individuals with DPN are at heightened risk for mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which further compromises functional independence. This study aims to determine the effects of turning-based dual-task training compared to conventional dual-task training on balance, cognitive function, and fall risk in individuals with DPN. Pre- and post-intervention assessments will be conducted using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT) to evaluate balance, cognition, and fall risk respectively.
Description
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action or both. As a major global health concern, its prevalence has been steadily increasing. According to the recent searches, 26.7% of adults in Pakistan are affected by diabetes. Implicated poor glycemic control, duration of diabetes, hyperlipidemia (particularly hypertriglyceridemia), elevated albumin excretion rates and obesity as risk factors for the development of DPN. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of these interventions in this specific population and to tell a treatment that will target both balance and cognition that will be used for DPN patients to improve the symptoms.
A randomized controlled trial will be conducted over one year. 44 participants will be selected through non- probability purposive sampling and randomly divided into two groups. The intervention will last eight weeks, comprising 24 treatment sessions. Assessments will be conducted at baseline and at the end of eight week. Treatment for Group A will include warm up, conventional balance training, turning based dual task training followed by cool down. Group B will include warm up, conventional balance training, dual task training followed by cool down.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus ≥ 5 years
- Diagnosed with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
- Age 50 and above
- Berg Balance Scale (BBS 21-40) score
- Mild Cognitive Impairments (MoCA 18-25)
- Able to stand and walk with or without assistive devices
Exclusion Criteria:
- Severe neuropathic foot ulcers or Charcot joints.
- History of major musculoskeletal injuries affecting ambulation (Fractures of lower limb), Severe Osteoarthritis.
- Uncontrolled Diabetes.
- Neurological disorders unrelated to DPN (brain tumors, stroke, epilepsy, Alzheimer's, GBS and Parkinson's disease).
- Significant visual, auditory impairment.