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Published on: July 14, 2023
Effects of multi-segmental therapeutic exercises on gait spatiotemporal parameters and lower-limb kinematics in
Cristiana Maria Dos Santos1, Rayana Fontenele Alves1, Glauko André de Figueiredo Dantas2
1Postgraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of the Parnaíba Delta, Parnaíba, PI-, Brazil.
Background:
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) impairs gait and increases fall risk. Current exercise programs mainly target distal segments, potentially neglecting proximal contributions to locomotor control.
Objective:
To compare the effects of a multi-segmental therapeutic exercise program versus an ankle-foot focused program on gait biomechanics in individuals with DPN.
Design:
Assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial.
Methods:
Sixty-four adults with DPN will be randomized to either a multi-segmental group (trunk, hip, knee and ankle exercises) or an ankle-foot group. Both groups will train twice weekly for 12 weeks. The primary outcome will be self-selected gait speed. Secondary outcomes include kinematic gait parameters, step and stride length, lower-limb muscle strength, 30-s sit-to-stand test and the quality of life. Assessments will occur at baseline, post-intervention and 4-week follow-up. Data will be analyzed using linear mixed models according to the intention-to-treat principle.
Hypothesis:
The multi-segmental program will produce greater improvements in gait speed and functional performance.
Ethics:
Approved by ethics committee and registered at ClinicalTrials.gov. Expected impact: Findings may support a shift from segmental to kinetic-chain-based rehabilitation in DPN.
