Effects of Weight-bearing Exercise on a Mini-trampoline, and Foot-ankle Therapeutic Exercise Program on Foot-ankle Functionality in People With Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Purpose: This study aims to investigate and compare the efficacy of two training programs of weight-bearing on a mini-trampoline, and ankle exercise therapy on foot-ankle functionality in people with peripheral neuropathy. Methods: The present research is a clinical trial study that has been conducted using two intervention groups and one control group. The statistical population of this study includes 48 women living in Tehran City, Iran with type 2 diabetes and moderate or severe neuropathy. The Michigan neuropathy screening instrument (MNSI) and foot health status questionnaire (FHSQ-BR) were used to collect data. The first experimental group performed mini-trampoline exercises, while the second group performed ankle therapeutic exercises at home for eight weeks. Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANOVA) and correlated t-test. Results: The findings showed that mini-trampoline exercise and ankle exercise therapy had a significant effect on relieving foot pain (P0.05). No significant difference was found in the control group after 8 weeks for the relevant variables (P>0.05). Conclusion: Exercises on the mini-trampoline and ankle therapeutic exercises at home can be effective in improving patients’ quality of life as a simple, affordable, low-risk, and quick-improvement treatment program that focuses on the use of segmental exercises for foot functionality