Exploring the Effectiveness of Peroneal Nerve Flossing in Alleviating Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms

Abstract

AIM: This study aims to determine whether the common peroneal nerve flossing approach improves common peroneal nerve function and physical wellbeing. NEED OF THE STUDY: Diabetic neuropathy refers to dysfunction of peripheral nerves experienced by individuals with diabetes mellitus. This condition primarily affects the nerves located in the legs and feet, leading to damage and dysfunction. Increased glucose levels will also cause nerve damage. The nerve flossing technique nerve mobilization technique is used to improve the neuro dynamics in conditions that involve irritation of the nerve. It gently mobilizes the compressed nerves through a set of simple exercises. It helps to reduce pain and to improve the ROM and reduce the damage to the nerve. Nerve mobilization is a technique with static and dynamic stretching that moves the involved nerve through full ROM. Mostly used to treat nerve-related pain and entrapment syndromes. Thus, the study focuses on the effects of nerve mobilization and nerve flossing techniques in subjects with diabetic neuropathy. METHODOLOGY: This study involved recruiting 8 subjects aged between 40-60 years with diabetic neuropathy and an HbA1C level of 6.5% or higher. Both male and female participants with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus were included, and those with an abnormal score exceeding 2.5 on the MNSI, or the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument were selected. Pre-test phase involved conducting nerve conduction studies (NCS), administering the QOL-DN questionnaire to assess quality of life, and then initiating the treatment protocol for a duration of 12 weeks, The treatment consisted of the nerve flossing technique performed twice for 5 repetitions, along with active mobilization performed five times with 10 repetitions and a 5-minute interval between sets. After completion of the treatment protocol, a post-test was administered, utilizing the same outcome measures. The collected data underwent statistical analysis for further evaluation. RESULT: The study results indicated that the nerve flossing technique effectively improved nerve function in individuals with diabetic neuropathy. The results emphasize the potential advantages of integrating nerve flossing techniques into the care and treatment of diabetic neuropathy.