Can balance training keep neuropathy patients on their feet?
NCT ID NCT07827417
First seen Sep 18, 2026 · Last updated Sep 18, 2026
Summary
Researchers compare two exercise programs to see which better improves posture and stability in adults with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a nerve condition that raises fall risk. Thirty-six participants aged 40 and older with type 2 diabetes and diagnosed neuropathy join the six-week study. One group does reactive balance training, which uses unexpected pushes to practice quick recovery steps. The other group does task-oriented training focused on everyday movements. Researchers measure balance, reach, and walking speed before, during, and after the programs.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- reactive balance training and task-oriented training, two exercise-based rehabilitation programs
- What this could lead to
- If one training approach works better, it could give physical therapists a clearer plan to help people with diabetic nerve damage stay steady and avoid falls.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, single-center study of 36 people, so the results may not apply broadly. Exercise programs carry a risk of muscle soreness or falls during training, and any benefits may fade without continued practice.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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About 36 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Started
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Feb 2026
- Expected to finish
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Jan 2027
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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40 years and older
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Both gender * Adults aged 40 years and above diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. * Diagnosed cases diabetic peripheral neuropathy. * Able to stand and walk independently * Balance or postural stability, as indicated by clinical tests (e.g., mini-bestest score below -normative values/21 or less or history of falls/near-falls). * Functional reach test with scores 6-10 inches * Time up and go up to 14 seconds Exclusion Criteria: * History of neurological disorders other than DPN (e.g., stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis). * Musculoskeletal disorders affecting lower limb function (e.g., grade 4 osteoarthritis, recent fractures). * Uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions (e.g., unstable angina, recent myocardial infarction). * Vestibular impairments affecting balance independently of DPN. * Diabetic complications that contraindicate exercise (e.g., active foot ulcers, severe retinopathy).
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
How to take part
Only the study team decides who joins. These are the ways to reach them.
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The places running it
1 site. The list below names each one and where it is.
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The official record
ClinicalTrials.gov lists the study team's own contact details, including names and phone numbers. We don't republish those.
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A doctor treating you
A doctor who knows your case can contact a study site on your behalf, and can tell you whether this study is worth pursuing at all.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
RECRUITINGIslamabad, 44000, Pakistan
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