Role of Plantar Sensory Training in Reducing Balance Impairment Among Adults with Diabetic Neuropathy
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Background: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy reduces plantar sensation and contributes to impaired postural control and functional mobility. Sensory-oriented exercises may complement conventional balance rehabilitation by increasing sensory input from the plantar surface. Objective: To compare the effects of targeted plantar sensory training and conventional balance training on balance, postural sway, and functional mobility in adults with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Methods: This two-group pretest–post-test experimental study included 50 adults recruited from rehabilitation settings in Karachi, Pakistan. Participants received either plantar sensory training or conventional balance training three times weekly for eight weeks. Outcomes were assessed using the Berg Balance Scale, sway area, and Timed Up and Go test. Results: Each group included 25 participants. Berg Balance Scale scores increased from 39.8 ± 4.5 to 49.6 ± 3.8 with plantar sensory training and from 40.1 ± 4.7 to 45.2 ± 4.1 with conventional training. Sway area decreased from 14.7 ± 3.6 to 8.2 ± 2.7 cm² and from 14.4 ± 3.8 to 10.9 ± 3.1 cm², respectively. Timed Up and Go time decreased from 15.8 ± 2.9 to 11.4 ± 2.2 seconds and from 15.6 ± 3.1 to 13.2 ± 2.5 seconds, respectively. Post-intervention differences favoured plantar sensory training for all outcomes. Conclusion: Plantar sensory training was associated with greater improvements in balance, postural stability, and functional mobility than conventional balance training.
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