Effectiveness of Intraneural Facilitation and Foot Massage on Sensory Function Among Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Abstract

Aims Diabetic peripheral neuropathy [DPN] affects up to 50% of individuals with type 2 diabetes, with distal symmetric polyneuropathy being the most common form. Early symptoms include sensory loss in the lower extremities, such as tingling, pain, and numbness, which may lead to serious complications like infections and amputations. This study aimed to assess the effects of intraneural facilitation [INF] and foot massage [FM] on sensory function among individuals with DPN. Materials & Methods The comparative study was conducted at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, India. A total of 66 participants with DPN were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. They were randomly assigned into two equal groups using sealed envelope method (n = 33 each). Group-A received INF and Group-B received FM. Sensory function was evaluated using the monofilament test. Both groups underwent their respective interventions three times a week for three weeks. Post-test assessments were conducted to measure changes in sensory function. Findings The post-test mean sensory function score in the INF group was significantly higher than that of the FM group. Statistical analysis revealed a p value of 0.038, indicating a significant improvement in the INF group. Conclusion Both intraneural facilitation and foot massage yielded significant improvements in sensory function among individuals with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. However, intraneural facilitation demonstrated comparatively greater efficacy, indicating its potential as a more effective therapeutic approach for optimizing sensory outcomes and enhancing peripheral blood flow in this population.