A Pilot Study of a 12-Week Leg Exercise and a 6- and 12-Month Follow-Up in Community-Dwelling Diabetic Elders: Effect on Dynamic Standing Balance
Vimonwan Hiengkaew PhD*, Sasithorn Saengrueangrob MSc*, Kornkamon Cheawthamai MSc*
Affiliation : * Faculty of Physical Therapy, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
Objective : To determine the effects of 12-week leg exercise and follow-up on fasting blood glucose (FBG), blood pressure,
static and dynamic standing balance time, leg muscle strength, and leg exercise behaviors in type 2 diabetic elderly.
Material and Method: Four females, completing 12-week leg exercise group and 6- and 12-month follow-up were examined
for FBG, blood pressure, standing on firm and foam surfaces, single leg stance, Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand Test (FTSST),
alternated stepping, and leg muscle strength at before leg exercise, week 12 of exercise, and months 6 and 12 follow-up after
exercise. Friedman’s ANOVA was used to compare these variables among 4 periods. Exercise behaviors were asked at
months 6 and 12 follow-up.
Results : Significant decreased time was observed in FTSST between before and at week 12, and alternated stepping between
before and at month 6. For one year follow-up, two participants performed leg exercise regularly. According to patients’
interviews, they continued leg exercise because of reduced leg pain and stiffness, compliance to physiotherapist’s suggestions,
and exercise addiction.
Conclusion : Leg exercise enhanced FTSST and alternated stepping produced good quality feeling in leg in diabetic elderly.
Physiotherapists may be a key for continuing leg exercise in community-dwelling diabetic elderly.
Keywords : Community, Diabetes mellitus, Elderly, Exercise, Lower limb
