Effects of perturbation-based balance training vs conventional balance training for reactive stepping in adults with diabetic nerve damage
Official title: Effects of Perturbation-Based Versus Conventional Balance Training on Reactive Stepping Ability in Patients With Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences · NCT07902297 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A 40-person study will test whether adding perturbation-based balance training helps adults with diabetic peripheral neuropathy react better to balance threats compared with standard balance training.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 45 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 12, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 2026 |
| Study ends | January 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 28, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07902297 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal participants are adults 45-65 with confirmed diabetic peripheral neuropathy who can stand independently and walk without a aid.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with active foot ulcers, severe vascular disease, other neurological conditions affecting balance, or recent major musculoskeletal issues may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized trial compares perturbation-based balance training (PBBT) to conventional balance training (CBT) in adults with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups and complete 24 training sessions over 8 weeks, with three supervised sessions per week. The study focuses on reactive stepping, dynamic balance, and functional balance to see which approach better improves fall-prevention abilities in this high-risk population. The intervention uses manually delivered, unexpected perturbations for the PBBT group, while the CBT group performs traditional balance exercises without perturbations. Recruitment targets adults aged 45-65 with confirmed diabetic neuropathy and adequate standing and walking ability.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, perturbation-based balance training could reduce fall risk and improve balance in people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work suggests perturbation-based approaches can improve reactive balance, but translation to diabetic neuropathy populations requires testing.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 45-65 years of either gender. * Confirmed cases of diabetic peripheral neuropathy with a score ≥2.5 on physical examination using the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI). * Able to stand independently on a firm surface and walk independently without a walking aid. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with active diabetic foot ulcers, gangrene, severe peripheral vascular disease, or severe musculature disorder. * Any neurological condition other than peripheral neuropathy affecting balance or postural control. * Participants with any musculoskeletal condition, such as fracture, joint replacement, recent lower-limb or spinal surgery, or other balance-related musculoskeletal disorders that may affect balance, gait, or functional mobility will be excluded.
Where it's running
-
Gillani Physio & Joint Care
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Dr Shoaib Waqas
- Email: shoaib.waqas@ubas.edu.pk
- Phone: +92 302 4552109
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Ultrasound-guided nerve hydrodissection for diabetic leg nerves
A single ultrasound-guided nerve hydrodissection procedure is tested to see if it helps people with diabetic lower limb entrapment neuropathy feel less pain and have better nerve function.
-
Shortwave therapy for diabetic peripheral neuropathy
A one-center study will test whether shortwave therapy given for five days can improve nerve symptoms in adults with diabetic neuropathy compared to a sham treatment.
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Intraneural Facilitation and Otago Exercise for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
This study will test whether intraneural facilitation, the Otago exercise program, or a combination of both can improve balance, reduce neuropathic pain, and improve quality of life for people aged 50–75 with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
-
Topical Capsadyn (palmitated capsaicin) for diabetic neuropathic foot pain
This study will test whether a topical Capsadyn cream can reduce foot pain in adults with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
-
Melatonin for people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy
This trial will test whether adding melatonin to usual care helps adults with type 2 diabetes who have peripheral neuropathy by reducing oxidative stress, lowering inflammation, and improving symptoms.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.