Effectiveness of Foot Reflexology on Neuropathic Pain and Emotional Well-Being among Clients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy.

Abstract

Introduction:

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) is one of the most prevalent microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes and is associated with chronic neuropathic pain, impaired mobility, and reduced emotional well-being. Non-pharmacological interventions such as foot reflexology are increasingly explored for symptom relief and holistic care.

Objectives:

To determine the prevalence of DPN among clients with type 2 diabetes; to evaluate the effectiveness of foot reflexology in reducing neuropathic pain and improving emotional well-being; and to examine the association of neuropathic pain and emotional well-being with selected sociodemographic and clinical variables.

Methods:

A mixed-method design comprising a cross-sectional survey and an interventional study was adopted. A total of 34 participants with type 2 diabetes were screened for DPN using the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI). Eligible participants with confirmed DPN (n = 34) received standardized foot reflexology sessions for 30 minutes, 3 times per week, for 4 weeks. Neuropathic pain was measured using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), and emotional well-being was assessed using the WHO-5 Well-Being Index. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, and chi-square tests.

Results:

The prevalence of DPN among clients with type 2 diabetes was found to be  34 %. Foot reflexology resulted in a significant reduction in neuropathic pain (mean pre-test score 76.67 mean post-test 56.08 p < 0.05) and a significant improvement in emotional well-being (mean pre-test 11.91; mean post-test 15.82; p < 0.05). Neuropathic pain and emotional well-being showed significant associations with age, duration of diabetes, glycemic control, and presence of comorbidities.

Conclusion:

Foot reflexology is an effective complementary therapy for reducing neuropathic pain and enhancing emotional well-being among clients with DPN. Incorporating reflexology into routine diabetes care may improve patient outcomes and quality of life.