Publication:

The efficacy of task-oriented training in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a narrative review

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is one of the most common complications of diabetes mellitus and is frequently associated with impaired balance, reduced proprioception, gait abnormalities, and an increased risk of falls. Various rehabilitation interventions have been developed to address these deficits and improve functional performance in affected individuals. The aim of this review is to determine the effectiveness of task oriented training in patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy. A review of literature was conducted using 11 studies published between 2011 and 2025. The selected studies investigated different rehabilitation approaches, including task-oriented training, balance and stability training, Biodex Balance System training, biofeedback-based interventions, multisensory training, augmented feedback training, and sensorimotor gait training. Information related to study objectives, methodology, interventions, outcomes, and conclusions was extracted and analyzed. A total 11 studies reviewed, 10 reported significant improvements in balance and postural stability, 3 demonstrated improvements in coordination, 3 reported enhanced gait performance and functional mobility, 3 evaluated task-oriented training, and 1 investigated sensorimotor training. Technology-assisted interventions such as Biodex Balance System and Stability Trainer exercises showed superior outcomes compared to conventional physiotherapy in several studies. Improvements were also observed in proprioception, muscle activation, balance confidence, and fall-risk reduction. The findings of this review indicate that rehabilitation interventions are effective in improving balance, coordination, gait performance, proprioception, and functional mobility among individuals with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Interventions incorporating task-oriented activities, sensory feedback, biofeedback technology, and progressive balance challenges appear to provide the greatest benefits.