EFFECTS OF ACTIVE VIBRATION TRAINING COMBINED WITH BALANCE TRAINING ON BALANCE, BALANCE CONFIDENCE AND FEAR OF FALL IN SUBJECTS WITH DIABETIC PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY – A QUASI EXPERIMENTAL STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes can lead to long-term complications, including peripheral neuropathy in which sensation diminishes in extremities due to nerve damage, reduce awareness of joint position and movement sense leading to loss of balance, postural instability, decreased confidence in performing daily living activities and overall quality of life. Primary Objective: To elevate effects of active vibration training and Balance training on Balance, Fall risk and Balance Confidence in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy patients. Methodology: Thirty patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy were randomly assigned to experimental A (n=15) and Control B (n=15) groups. The group A performed active vibration training using flexi-bar along with balance training and Group B received balance training for a duration of 6 weeks. Both the groups were assessed at the baseline, 3rd week and after 6 weeks. Outcome measures were Ortho-king Pressure Plate SDP610 (Postural Sway), Activities Specific Balance Confidence, Modified Fall Efficacy Scale. Results: The study revealed that combining Active Vibration with balance training significantly improves balance. Group A showed marked improvements in postural sway (AP direction), balance confidence (ABC), and reduced fall risk (MFES) over 6 weeks. Key p-values (≤ 0.001) highlight strong statistical significance, confirming the added effectiveness of Active Vibration in enhancing balance and safety. Conclusion: On the basis of results, active vibration exercise effectively improved Postural Deviation, balance confidence and decreased the fall of risk in diabetic peripheral neuropathy patients.