Effectiveness of Physiotherapy Intervention for Elderly People with Diabetic Neuropathy: A Review Study

Faruq  Ahmed; Nazmul Hassan; Waliul Islam; Kutub Uddin; Shahoriar Ahmed; Asma Islam

doi:10.18502/jmr.v18i2.15970

Faruq Ahmed Department of Physiotherapy, Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP), Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Nazmul Hassan Department of Physiotherapy, Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP), Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Waliul Islam Department of Physiotherapy, Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP), Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Kutub Uddin Department of Physiotherapy, SAIC College of Medical Science & Technology, Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Shahoriar Ahmed Department of Physiotherapy, Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP), Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Asma Islam Department of Physiotherapy, Bangladesh Health Professions Institute (BHPI), Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jmr.v18i2.15970

Keywords: Physical therapy; Rehabilitation; Elderly; Diabetic neuropathy; Peripheral neuropathy

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is one of the most complex and progressive disorders, characterized by symmetrical distal degeneration of peripheral nerves, resulting in features of pain and sensory loss. This study aimed to find out the effects of physiotherapy intervention on physical function, balance, and postural control of persons with DN.

Materials and Methods: A computerized electronic search was performed using PEDro, Pubmed, CINAHL, and EMBASE with keywords including physiotherapy intervention, physical exercise, rehabilitation techniques, balance training, diabetic neuropathy, and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The inclusion criteria consisted of studies that were randomized clinical trials, crossover trials, or controlled trials published in the English language from 2015 to 2021, identifying DN as the primary concern, and physiotherapy intervention as one of the treatment options.

Results: The primary search of the database turned up an entire set of 58 studies, among which 11 studies were selected as potentially meeting the inclusion criteria. Ultimately, four studies were retained for the final results of the review. The evaluations provided evidence to suggest that physiotherapy has positive effects on subjects with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Conclusion: After reviewing, it has been revealed that balance and strength training are applicable for improving balance, gait, and physical function in DN patients.