Can diabetic peripheral neuropathy influence the final outcome of physical performance after a combined training program in older adults? A double-blind quasi-experimental study.

The non-DPN group showed greater improvements in agility and dynamic balance compared to the DPN group following a 12-week combined training program.

• Differences were statistically significant for SFT agility and dynamic balance (p = 0.010) and TUG test (p = 0.018)
• Total sample: 51 older adults with T2DM, divided into DPN (n = 24) and non-DPN (n = 27) groups
• Study design: double-blind quasi-experimental
• Combined training program lasted 12 weeks with two weekly sessions

DPN presence explained 13% of the variance in SFT agility and balance outcomes.

• DPN presence accounted for 13% of the variance in SFT agility and balance
• This was derived from regression analyses examining predictors of physical performance outcomes
• SFT = Senior Fitness Test, which assessed agility and dynamic balance

DPN presence explained 20% of the variance in TUG (Timed Up and Go) test performance.

• DPN accounted for 20% of the variance in TUG test outcomes
• TUG was administered both with and without a cognitive task
• TUG assesses functional mobility and dynamic balance

BMI and diabetes duration together explained 15% of the variance in 30-second chair stand performance.

• BMI and diabetes duration were identified as significant predictors of the 30-s chair stand test
• These two variables jointly accounted for 15% of the variance
• The 30-s chair stand test is a measure of lower extremity muscle strength and endurance

Age and BMI explained 12% of the variance in the 4-meter walk test performance.

• Age and BMI together accounted for 12% of the variance in the 4 m walk test
• The 4 m walk test is a measure of gait speed and lower extremity function
• These findings suggest that demographic and anthropometric factors independently influence walking performance

The combined training program consisted of resistance exercises and high-intensity interval aerobic training over 12 weeks.

• Training included resistance exercises targeting major muscle groups
• Aerobic component used high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on a stationary bicycle
• Sessions were held twice weekly for 12 weeks
• Physical performance was assessed using handgrip strength, Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), Senior Fitness Test (SFT), and TUG with and without cognitive task

Muscle strength was assessed by handgrip strength and physical performance by multiple validated tests including the Short Physical Performance Battery and the Senior Fitness Test.

• Assessment tools included: handgrip strength (muscle strength), SPPB and SFT (physical performance), and TUG with and without cognitive dual-task (balance)
• Both groups underwent the same pre- and post-training assessments
• The study used a double-blind design