ABORDAGENS FISIOTERAPÊUTICAS RELEVANTES APLICADAS PARA REABILITAÇÃO FUNCIONAL DE MARCHA E EQUILÍBRIO EM PACIENTES COM NEUROPATIA DIABÉTICA: UMA REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA
ABORDAGENS FISIOTERAPÊUTICAS RELEVANTES APLICADAS PARA REABILITAÇÃO FUNCIONAL DE MARCHA E EQUILÍBRIO EM PACIENTES COM NEUROPATIA DIABÉTICA: UMA REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.82081122525111
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Palavras-chave: neuropatia diabética; fisioterapia; marcha; equilíbrio; reabilitação funcional; autonomia.
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Keywords: diabetic neuropathy; physiotherapy; gait; balance; functional rehabilitation; autonomy.
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Abstract: Diabetic neuropathy is a frequent chronic complication of diabetes mellitus that affects sensorimotor pathways, impairing gait and balance and increasing the risk of falls and functional dependence. These impairments negatively influence autonomy and quality of life, which reinforces the importance of rehabilitation strategies grounded in a person-centered, functional approach. This systematic review aimed to identify and analyze physiotherapeutic interventions directed at improving gait and postural stability in adults with diabetic neuropathy. Searches were conducted in PubMed, SciELO, PEDro and Google Scholar using descriptors related to “diabetic neuropathy”, “physiotherapy”, “gait” and “balance”. Inclusion criteria comprised clinical studies involving physiotherapeutic interventions focusing on gait and/or balance outcomes. Six studies met the eligibility criteria and were included for qualitative synthesis. The studies identified a variety of intervention strategies, including conventional and antigravity treadmill gait training, lower limb strengthening, proprioceptive exercises, and functional rehabilitation protocols. Overall, these interventions demonstrated improvements in gait speed, postural control, functional mobility, and independence in daily activities. Outcomes were most favorable when exercises were progressive, individualized, and supervised by trained professionals. Additionally, some studies reported secondary benefits such as pain reduction and increased self-efficacy in movement. The findings indicate that structured physiotherapy programs are effective and clinically relevant for improving gait and balance in individuals with diabetic neuropathy. Beyond physical performance, the evidence emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive, person-centered rehabilitation approach aimed at enhancing autonomy, safety, and meaningful participation in daily and social activities. Continued physiotherapeutic assessment and individualized treatment planning play a critical role in maintaining functionality and preventing falls in this population.
- Thais Santos Pereira da Silva
- Ana Carolina Silva Ferreira
- Cíntia de Fatima Martins de Sousa
- Maria Helena Trindade Vieira