Strength and Endurance Exercises on balance impairment, gait disturbance, and quality of life of persons living with HIV-related Distal symmetrical polyneuropathy: a study protocol

Abstract Background Distal Symmetrical Peripheral Neuropathy (DSPN) is associated with disabling pain, poor balance, gait disturbance, and reduced quality of life (QOL). Exercise has consistently been mentioned as one of the nonpharmacological therapies for the rehabilitation of individuals with HIV, but little is known about an exercise program to recommend to people living with HIV (PLWHIV)-related DSPN. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of aerobic (AE) or progressive resisted exercise (PRE) on balance impairment, gait disturbance, and QOL in PLWHIV-related DSPN. Methods 132 participants are expected to be recruited and randomized into three groups, namely, the AE group, PRE groups, and Control group (CG). The AE participants will undergo cycle-ergometer training, the PRE participants will undergo Quadriceps bench resisted training, while the CG will receive voluntary counseling and treatment’s routine care. Participants’ Balance and Gait will be assessed using the POMA scale, and QOL will be assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF at baseline, 6weeks, and the end of 12weeks. Data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics of repeated ANOVA; P  Discussion The outcome of this study will identify the effectiveness of AE or PRE training, compared with the control, in the rehabilitation of PLWHIV-related DSPN.