Rehabilitation Interventions for Gait Problems in Patients With Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Scoping Review

Background and Objectives: Gait and balance disturbances are challenging conditions in patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN). The overall literary consensus is that rehabilitation interventions are effective in improving gait performance in this patient group. This review sought to highlight and assess the literature and provide a scoping review on the current knowledge gaps in the rehabilitation interventions for the gait problems of patients with DPN. Methods: An electronic databases search was done between 2001 and May 2020. Besides, a hand-search method was used for grey literature. Two experts reviewed the results and screened them based on the subject’s diagnosis with DPN and gait problems. Results: Of 87 studies obtained, nine met the inclusion criteria. The frequent components of the rehabilitation interventions included exercise therapy, dual-task intervention, and the use of assistive devices. The outcomes utilized most frequently included changes in balance and stability, muscle strength, proprioception, function, and gait parameters. Conclusion: Evidence was formed as a scoping review to guide rehabilitation for DPN patients with gait problems. Rigorous comparative studies with clearly defined interventions are needed.