How do foot-ankle exercises improve clinical and plantar pressure outcomes in people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy? A mediation analysis of a randomized controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Foot-ankle exercises targeting modifiable risk factors, such as peak pressure, ankle motion, and foot strength, may reduce ulcer risk and improve gait biomechanics, but the pathways driving these improvements are unclear.

Objectives

To identify the causal pathways through which a 12-week foot-ankle exercise program improved foot function, pain, and plantar pressure during gait by examining key mediators of these effects.

Methods

A total of 62 participants with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) were assigned to either a web-based foot-ankle program or usual care. The outcomes included peak pressure, pressure-time integral at the forefoot, foot pain, and foot function. Mediators included hallux and toe strength, sagittal ankle range of motion (ROM) during

SUBMITTER: Cruvinel-Junior RH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12088744 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul-Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature