Abstract: Background: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy ulcers on the plantar surface of the foot are typically found in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy. Pressure beneath planter surface of foot is increased in diabetic foot result of a combination of morphological sensory abnormalities. Sensory loss plays a vital role in predisposing to the development of these lesions. A new technique that may improve tactile, and possibly proprioceptive, feedback is the application of noise to the plantar surface of the feet. By adding sub threshold electrical or mechanical noise (vibration with a randomly varying frequency) to a sub Threshold sensory input, the sensory threshold may be crossed.
Objective of the study: To compare the effectiveness of foot insoles and plantar tactile stimulation in improving balance, mobility and reduction of falls in diabetic peripheral neuropathy patients.
Methodology: study conducted on 100 adults with diabetic peripheral neuropathy participants were randomized to reserve planter tactile stimulation group A (n=50) and foot insole group B (n=50) to be ware for 12 weeks. The primary outcome measure functional advance balance scale with lower value indicating poor balance.
Results: it is observed Significant difference in FABS score among subjects of group A and group B subjects were observed at 1, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. (P< 0.05) thus in subjects of group A and group B the average difference in FABS score was not matched from 1 week to 12 weeks and more increase in FABS score was observed in group B as compared to group A.
Also significant increase in FABS score was observed in both the groups from the day of arrival till 12 weeks. (P< 0.05).
Conclusion: This study suggests that effectiveness of foot insoles and plantar tactile stimulation in improving balance, mobility and reduction of falls in people with Diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
