Tai Chi versus Modified-Otago exercises for pain, balance, and walking in diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Comparative Effects of Tai Chi Versus Modified-Otago Exercises On Pain, Balance And Motor Function In Patients With Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
This trial will test whether Tai Chi or Modified-Otago exercises better reduce pain and improve balance and movement in people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 36 (estimated) |
| Ages | 40 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT07078565 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized trial enrolls 36 adults with type 2 diabetes and confirmed diabetic peripheral neuropathy to compare two structured exercise programs. Participants aged 40–80 who meet neuropathy and pain thresholds are randomly assigned to a Tai Chi group or a Modified-Otago strength-and-balance group and complete supervised exercise sessions. Primary outcomes include changes in pain, balance, and motor function measured by standard clinical scales and performance tests. The trial offers a non-drug approach to symptom management delivered at a single rehabilitation center.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 40–80 with type 2 diabetes for at least 5 years, chronic neuropathic pain for ≥6 months with pain ≥3 on the NPRS and a Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Score ≥6, who are ambulatory and free of active foot ulcers or major neurologic disease are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Non-ambulatory patients, those with active foot ulceration or infection, or those with major neurologic conditions such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, or multiple sclerosis are unlikely to benefit or be eligible for this trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these exercise programs could reduce chronic neuropathic pain, improve balance and walking ability, and lower fall risk for people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies in older adults and some diabetes cohorts have shown Tai Chi and Otago-like programs can improve balance and reduce fall risk, but direct head-to-head comparisons in diabetic peripheral neuropathy are limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Both genders are aged 40-80 years * Patient having Types ii diabetes with Minimum of 5 years since diabetes diagnosis * Patients experiencing chronic pain for at least 6 months and level ≥ 3 on NPRS. * Patient having ≥ 6 score on Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Scoring System for diabetic neuropathy Exclusion Criteria: * Non-ambulatory patients * Patients with ulceration/infection of feet, medical/surgical conditions * Patients suffering from stroke, parkinson's disease, or multiple sclerosis
Where this trial is running
Lahore, Punjab Province
- Riphah Rehab Training and Research Center, — Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Amna Shahid, t-DPT — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Imran Amjad, PhD
- Email: imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: 03324390125
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.