Effect of Feldenkrais Method in Enhancing Postural Control for Patients With Diabetic Polyneuropathy.

BACKGROUND

Diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) contributes to impaired postural control and increases the risk of falls due to sensory and motor deficits. The Feldenkrais Method (FM), a sensorimotor approach that enhances body awareness and coordination, may offer therapeutic benefits in addressing these challenges.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of the Feldenkrais Method in improving dynamic balance, postural control, fear of falling, and quality of life in adults with DPN.

METHODS

Twenty-six participants aged 45-60 years with DPN were randomized into a study group receiving FM-based training or a control group receiving conventional balance training. Both interventions were administered twice weekly for 24 weeks. Primary outcomes included Timed Up and Go (TUG), limits of stability (LoS), Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), and Diabetes-39 Questionnaire for quality of life (QoL). Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA and post hoc Bonferroni tests.

RESULTS

Significant post-intervention improvements were observed in the FM group across all outcomes: TUG (p = 0.0001), LoS (p = 0.0001), FES (p = 0.0001), and QoL (p = 0.0001). Furthermore, the FM group demonstrated statistically significant superiority over the control group in all primary and secondary measures (p < 0.05). The control group showed no statistically significant changes.

CONCLUSION

The Feldenkrais Method appears effective in enhancing balance, postural control, and quality of life in individuals with DPN. These results support its integration into neurorehabilitation programs.