Improvement Through Movement - Balance Control and Somatosensory Function in People With Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Summary

This study focuses on improving balance control and somatosensory functions in individuals aged 60 years and older with diabetes mellitus tyoe 2 (DMT2). Older adults with DMT2 are at an increased risk of balance problems due to diabetic complications such as neuropathy, retinopathy, and possibly reduced vestibular function. The aim of the study is to investigate whether a 12-week exercise program, with or without additional balance exercises, can improve balance control, enhance somatosensory functions (such as touch and vibration thresholds), and positively impact diabetes-related parameters, including HbA1c levels.

The study is designed as a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Participants are selected based on reduced balance control identified in a prior cross-sectional study. The intervention group follows an exercise program in accordance with international guidelines, supplemented with balance exercises supervised by the researcher (physiotherapist). The control group follows the same guidelines but without balance exercises; instead, they perform relaxation exercises. Balance control is assessed both statically and dynamically, while somatosensory functions are measured, and diabetes-related parameters are collected.

The intervention is primarily home-based, supported by an activity tracker, but the balance or relaxation exercises are conducted under supervision at a designated location. This study aims to contribute to the quality of life of older adults with DMT2 by reducing balance problems and fall risks.

Conditions

• Diabetes Mellitus Type 2
• Impaired Balance in Elderly
• Somatosensory Disorders
• Balance Control in Elderly

Interventions

BEHAVIORAL

Balance control and exercise training

Physical activity has long been recognized as a key intervention for improving various diabetes-related characteristics in individuals with DMT2. Although general exercise interventions are effective, it remains unclear whether they are sufficient to address specific balance issues in this population. As balance control depends on a complex integration of somatosensory input, muscle strength, and coordination, the question arises whether adding targeted balance exercises to an exercise program is necessary to improve balance control. This study investigates whether a standard exercise program consisting of aerobic training and strength training, in line with international guidelines, is sufficient to improve balance control in older adults with DMT2, or whether specific balance exercises are necessary. The distinction between the intervention and control groups allows for the evaluation of the relative impact of balance exercises.

BEHAVIORAL

Relaxation and exercise training

Relaxation techniques will be used upon the home prescribed exercise program in the control arm, in order to have an equal one-on-one time with the researcher physical therapist.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• University Hospital, Antwerp

  collaborator OTHER

• Universiteit Antwerpen

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Eveline Dirinck, Professor · University Hospital of Antwerp (UZA) / University of Antwerp

• Dirk Vissers, Professor · Universiteit Antwerpen

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

NONE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

60 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-11-13

Primary Completion

2027-07-31

Completion

2027-08-31

Countries

• Belgium

Study Locations