BACKGROUND: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) impairs proprioception, increases fall risk, and affects balance in older adults, necessitating effective interventions to improve stability and quality of life. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) exercises in balance and fall risk in older adults with DPN. METHODS: Sixty participants with DPN were randomly assigned to DNS (group A) or conventional balance training (CBT) (group B) for a 4-week intervention. Balance and fall risk were assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Generalized Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I). RESULTS: Group A's median BBS score improved significantly from 30.000 to 47.000 (p < 0.001), with group B showing smaller improvements. Group A also demonstrated a significantly greater reduction in fall risk, with post-intervention FES-I scores lower than group B's (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: DNS is more effective than CBT for improving balance and reducing fall risk in DPN.
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