Comparative Effects of Functional and Balance Training on Fall Risk in Diabetic Neuropathy

Abstract

Background: Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes mellitus that impairs sensory and motor function, leading to balance deficits, gait disturbances, and an increased risk of falls. Functional Training and Balance Training are commonly used physiotherapy interventions to improve mobility and reduce fall risk, but comparative evidence remains limited.
Objective: To compare the effects of Functional Training and Balance Training on fall risk among patients with diabetic neuropathy.
Methods: A quasi-experimental two-group pre-test–post-test study was conducted among 26 patients with diabetic neuropathy. Participants were allocated to a Functional Training group (n=13) or a Balance Training group (n=13). Both interventions were performed three times weekly for four weeks. Fall risk was assessed using the Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT). Data were analyzed using paired-sample and independent-sample t-tests. Effect sizes were calculated using Cohen’s d.
Results: Both interventions significantly improved TUGT performance. Functional Training reduced TUGT scores by 9.46 seconds (95% CI 7.14–11.78; t=8.877; p<0.001; d=2.462). Balance Training reduced TUGT scores by 7.15 seconds (95% CI 4.83–9.48; t=6.703; p<0.001; d=1.859). No significant differences were observed between groups at baseline (p=0.311) or after intervention (mean difference=-0.77 seconds; 95% CI -2.21 to 0.67; p=0.282; d=-0.431).
Conclusion: Functional Training and Balance Training were both effective in reducing fall risk among patients with diabetic neuropathy, with no significant difference in effectiveness between interventions.