Actively Recruiting
Tai Chi vs. Modified-Otago Exercises for Pain, Balance, and Motor Function in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Led by Riphah International University · Updated on 2025-07-22
36
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
48 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
his randomized clinical trial evaluates the comparative effectiveness of Tai Chi and Modified-Otago exercise programs on pain reduction, balance improvement, and motor function in patients diagnosed with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). DPN is a common complication of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus that significantly impairs quality of life through chronic pain, balance deficits, and decreased functional mobility. While pharmacological treatments are commonly used, they often result in adverse side effects, creating a growing need for non-pharmacological interventions like therapeutic exercises. Tai Chi, a traditional Chinese exercise combining slow movements and mental focus, has shown benefits in improving mobility and reducing fall risks in chronic disease populations. The Modified-Otago program, originally developed to prevent falls in the elderly, emphasizes strength and balance training through structured exercise routines. A total of 36 participants (aged 40-80 years) with at least a 5-year history of Type 2 diabetes and a minimum pain score of ≥3 on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) will be recruited. Participants will be randomly allocated to either the Tai Chi group or the Modified-Otago group. Both groups will receive 24 sessions over an 8-week period (3 sessions per week), along with baseline interventions such as heating pad application, TENS, and warm-up/cool-down routines. Primary outcome measures include NPRS for pain, the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) for balance, and the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI) for motor function. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and two weeks post-treatment. Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 26 to determine within-group and between-group differences. This study aims to inform clinicians about effective exercise strategies for improving physical function in patients with DPN and potentially establish evidence-based rehabilitation protocols.
CONDITIONS
Official Title
Tai Chi vs. Modified-Otago Exercises for Pain, Balance, and Motor Function in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Participants of both genders aged 40 to 80 years
- Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes for at least 5 years
- Experiencing chronic pain for at least 6 months with a pain level of 3 or higher on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale
- Scoring 6 or higher on the Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Scoring System indicating diabetic neuropathy
You will not qualify if you...
- Unable to walk independently
- Presence of foot ulcers, infections, or other medical or surgical conditions affecting the feet
- History of stroke, Parkinson's disease, or multiple sclerosis
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Riphah Rehab Training and Research Center,
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan, 54000
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
I
Imran Amjad, PhD
CONTACT
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
SINGLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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