Can diabetic peripheral neuropathy influence the final outcome of physical performance after a combined training program in older adults? A double‐blind quasi‐experimental study

This study investigated the influence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) on physical performance in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) following a combined training (CT) program. A total of 51 older adults participated in the study divided into DPN (n = 24) and non-DPN (n = 27) groups. Muscle strength was assessed by handgrip strength; physical performance by the Short Physical Performance Battery, and the Senior Fitness Test (SFT); and balance by the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, with and without a cognitive task. The CT program lasted 12 weeks, with two weekly sessions including resistance exercises for major muscle groups and high-intensity interval aerobic training on a stationary bicycle. Compared with the DPN group, the non-DPN group showed greater improvements in agility and dynamic balance in the SFT (p = 0.010) and TUG (p = 0.018). BMI and diabetes duration explained 15% of the variance in the 30-s chair stand. DPN presence explained 13% of the variance in SFT agility and balance and 20% in TUG, while age and BMI explained 12% of the variance in the 4 m walk test. DPN attenuates the response to combined training, particularly affecting functional outcomes related to mobility and balance.