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Original Research | Physiotherapy | Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026 | Pages: 2194 - 2202 | India
A Comparative Study to Analyze the Effectiveness of HIIT Versus Anaerobic Training in Improving Gait and Foot Function in Patients with Diabetic Neuropathy
Abstract: Background: Diabetic neuropathy has profound impacts on quality of life, especially for middle-aged and older adults. It causes sensory loss, pain, muscle weakness, and foot deformities, leading to disability. It arises from chronic metabolic and vascular insults to peripheral nerves. The vast majority (>90%) of these cases are type 2 diabetes (T2D), driven by obesity, sedentary lifestyle, aging, and other factors. Physical activity is a cornerstone of diabetes management in general, and its role in neuropathy is increasingly recognized. Exercise improves glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, cardiovascular fitness, and body composition in patients with type 2 diabetes. Therefore, this study evaluates changes in improving gait and foot function using the Foot Function Index (FFI) scores and Estimated Shuttle Walk Test (ESWT) score after a 12-week supervised exercise program. Objective: The objective of the study is to i) evaluate the effect of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on gait endurance and foot function in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, ii) evaluate the effect of anaerobic (resistance-based) training on gait endurance and foot function in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, iii) determine which exercise intervention is more effective in improving gait performance and foot function in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Method: 60 patients diagnosed with the diabetic neuropathy by Physiotherapy department, neurology or neurosciences department OPD were initially assessed for the inclusion or exclusion criteria. Prior to the treatment procedure patient are oriented to the study. Participants are divided into 2 groups and both groups assessed for the pre test parameter. Outcome measure: Foot Function Index (FFI) scores and Estimated Shuttle Walk Test (ESWT) score is used for measuring pre and post intervention evaluation. Results: Group comparison of post-intervention outcomes. For the Foot Function Index, Group A (HIIT) achieved a mean post-test score of 34.90 ± 1.83, compared to 43.57 ± 2.10 in Group B (Anaerobic). The mean difference of 8.67 points in favor of the HIIT group was statistically significant (t = 17.08, p
Keywords: Diabetic Neuropathy, HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), anaerobic training
How to Cite?: Aman Pareek, Dr. Dipika Balala PT, Dr. Jafar Khan PT, "A Comparative Study to Analyze the Effectiveness of HIIT Versus Anaerobic Training in Improving Gait and Foot Function in Patients with Diabetic Neuropathy", Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 2194-2202, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26725150507, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26725150507