Physical activity as prevention and complementary therapy in diabetic neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration in the elderly: a literature review

Introduction:
In the face of aging societies in Europe and North America, the incidence of diabetic neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration is increasing. Pharmacological treatment of these entities is often insufficient. Additional non-pharmacological forms of therapy and prevention could slow down this unfavorable trend of morbidity and improve the quality of life of patients. In this article, we will consider physical activity as a support for the healing process and a protective factor.

Purpose of the work:
The aim of the article is to review the current state of knowledge regarding the positive impact of physical exercise in the prevention and therapy of diabetic neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. The goal was also to draw attention to what type of physical activity is best for achieving the most optimal effects.

Material and methods:
The review article was written based on online databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, Polish Medical Bibliography. The authors tried to use the latest research and meta-analyses, limiting the years of publication to 2014-2023.

Results:
Aerobic exercise reduces the incidence and risk of progression of the above-mentioned diseases. Additionally, in the case of diabetic neuropathy, resistance exercises targeting specific parts of the limbs may also reduce pain symptoms and the risk of falls.

Conclusions:
Physical activity as prevention and complementary therapy in diabetic neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration in the elderly should be considered more effective than treatment of the above-mentioned diseases without this activity.