RESUMO
We evaluate the effects of somatosensory training on the mean amplitude of the center of pressure (COP) in the upright position and the sustained benefits after 6-month. Twelve elderly patients with type II diabetes (T2DM) participated in the study. Patients with T2DM were allocated to the somatosensory protocol, which consisted of a circuit composed of 13 stations with different textures. The rehabilitation protocol was applied twice a week during the period of 12 weeks. Upright balance, in 2 situations (fixed platform with eyes open and closed) to evaluate the mean amplitude of COP oscillation in the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral directions and the total area of COP oscillation. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, post-exercise and 6-month follow-up. The somatosensory training protocol was beneficial to reduce the AP oscillation of the COP, remaining after 6 months of the end of intervention in elderly with T2DM.