FOOT EXERCISES CAN MORE EFFECTIVELY IMPROVE FOOT SENSITIVITY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES

Abstract

One of the complications of diabetes mellitus (DM) is peripheral neuropathy, which can lead to decreased foot sensitivity and increase the risk of diabetic foot problems. Peripheral neuropathy is one of the most common complications of DM, affecting approximately 50% of people with diabetes. This study aimed to determine the effect of leg exercises on foot sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study employed a quasi-experimental design using a pretest–posttest control group design. Samples were DM patients who suffered decreased sensitivity without mobility impairment. The total sample consisted of 40 respondents, with 20 participants in each group. The intervention group received leg exercises three times a week, while the control group received range-of-motion (ROM) exercises. Foot sensitivity was assessed before and after the intervention and reassessed after two weeks using a 10-g Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test. The Mann–Whitney U test showed a significant difference in foot sensitivity between the two groups was 1,05 (p = 0.008; α < 0.05). The leg exercise intervention was more effective in improving mean foot sensitivity than a ROM exercise in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.