Effectiveness of Wobble Board and Swiss Ball exercises on balance, mobility and functional independence in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Background Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus that may impair balance, mobility, and functional independence. Exercise using unstable surfaces, such as Wobble Board and Swiss Ball, may improve these functional outcomes. However, direct comparative evidence between these exercise approaches in patients with DPN remains limited. Aim and objective This study aimed to compare the effects of Wobble Board and Swiss Ball exercises on balance, mobility, and functional independence in patients with DPN. Method A total of 200 eligible patients with DPN, aged 45–70 years, were included. Participants were assigned to two groups: Group A ( n = 100) received Wobble Board training and Group B ( n = 100) received Swiss Ball training, both combined with conventional therapy. Balance, mobility, and functional independence were assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and Functional Independence Measure (FIM), respectively, before and after 8 weeks of intervention. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results Both groups showed significant improvements in BBS, TUG, and FIM scores following intervention ( p < 0.001). Baseline-adjusted ANCOVA demonstrated significant between-group differences for BBS, TUG, and FIM ( p < 0.001), with greater improvement observed in the Swiss Ball group. Conclusion Both exercise programmes improved balance, mobility, and functional independence in patients with DPN. The Swiss Ball group demonstrated statistically greater improvements; however, these findings are specific to the exercise programmes evaluated and should not be interpreted as evidence of universal superiority.