Therapeutic Interventions to Improve Static Balance in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by an abnormal increase in blood glucose levels resulting from insulin secretion and/or dysfunctional activity that can lead to several serious complications in addition to decreased postural balance. Objective: This study aimed to identify and analyze the main interventions used to improve static balance in patients with DM. Methods: For the selection of articles, a bibliographic search was performed using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Only clinical trials that investigated the effect of training on static balance in adults with type 2 DM were selected, and 34 studies were included. Results: The search resulted in the identification of 2681 articles, and of these, 31 were eligible for the study. The identified interventions were proprioceptive, aerobic, resistance training on platforms, in virtual reality, and Tai Chi. The main results obtained were an increase in time in the one-leg stance, Romberg test, and tandem position, a significant increase in the Berg Balance Scale score and balance index, and a reduction in the variables of postural sway. Conclusion: There are a variety of effective training methods for improving static balance, and the choice of intervention to be applied goes beyond proven effectiveness, depending on reproducibility and/or financial cost.