| خلاصه مقاله | Balance impairment, as a result of sensori-motor-cognitive dysfunction, is a common health problem in people with diabetic neuropathy. It may lead to falling and its hazardous consequences such as institutionalization, restricted participation and death. Several studies have investigated the effects various exercise programs to improve balance in people with diabetic neuropathy. The aim of this study is to have a r eview on the effectiveness of exercise programs designed to improve balance control in people with diabetic neuropathy.
We performed a review of controlled clinical trials which aimed to enhance balance abilities in people with diabetic neuropathy through an exercise intervention. PubMed, Embase, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and Scopus were searched from 1998 to 2016. The keywords were classified into 3 categories: 1.exercise/ strengthening/ endurance/ aerobic 2. Balance/ postural control 3. diabetic neuropathy/ diabetes. The words in each category were searched interchangeably.
Our search showed that eight studies have assessed the specific effects of exercise on balance impairment in people with diabetic neuropathy. They had used strengthening programs, stabilometer balance protocols, aerobic, multisensory, weight bearing and balance-strengthening exercise to enhance balance ability. Generally, they demonstrated that exercise could increase lower limb strength, functional balance, stability index and self-confidence in controlling balance during daily activities. Moreover, the risk of falling, postural sway and reaction time were decreased after performing exercises.
In conclusion, exercise is effective for improving balance abilities and reducing risk of falls, thus needs to be considered as a part of the comprehensive treatments in people with diabetic neuropathy. The best method of exercise to improve balance is yet to be known. |