Effectiveness of Proprioceptive Training on Plantar Pressure, Balance, Posture and Gait in Individuals With Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) can be considered as one of the most important chronic diseases in the public health system, presenting a high cost for health services. Along with the increase in diagnosed cases of DM, there is a simultaneous increase in DM-related manifestations, such as peripheral diabetic neuropathy, diabetic foot ulcers and amputations. Decreased plantar sensitivity caused by microvascular complications, reduced sensation of vibration and loss of pressure sensitivity may be associated with recurrent falls due to reduced proprioceptive feedback. Although much is known about the beneficial results of physical exercise on glucose metabolism and insulin action, there are still few studies that evaluate the effects of different types of physical exercise, especially proprioceptive training, on plantar pressure, balance and posture of individuals. Objective: The present study aims to evaluate the efficacy of proprioceptive training on plantar pressure, postural balance and posture in adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Methods: This study is a randomized, double blind, controlled clinical trial (evaluator and statistician) with individuals of both sexes, with type 2 diabetes mellitus diagnosed for at least 3 years, over 45 years of age, that can walk without assistance or supervision of others. Two groups will be formed, the Control Group (CG) and the Trained Group (TG), and the ideal "n" will be calculated in a pilot study.