Foot Exercise with Tennis Ball for Peripheral Neuropathy in Diabetes Mellitus Type-2: A Case Study

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Abdurrasyid
Faculty of Health Sciences, Esa Unggul University, Jakarta Barat, Indonesia
Aisyah Kamelia
Faculty of Health Sciences, Esa Unggul University, Jakarta Barat, Indonesia
Satria Gobel
Faculty of Health Sciences, Esa Unggul University, Jakarta Barat, Indonesia

Peripheral neuropathy is one of the long-term microvascular complications that significantly affect individuals with type-2 DM, characterized by nerve damage and loss of sensation. Most individuals with type-2 DM experience peripheral neuropathy as a common complication, which is responsible for a fairly high rate of mortality, illness, and decreased quality of life. Foot exercises using modified tennis balls help alleviate the symptoms of neuropathy in people with type-2 DM. This study aims to apply and evaluate the effectiveness of foot exercises with tennis ball modification in reducing peripheral neuropathy in type-2 DM patients. The case study focuses on adult patients who have been diagnosed with type-2 DM with complications and are currently facing problems in the lower extremities in the form of peripheral neuropathy. The intervention consisted of educating patients about foot care and engaging in foot exercises using a modified tennis ball for 30 minutes daily over a period of 2 weeks. Measurements included foot health checks, monofilament test examinations, and blood sugar checks during diabetic neuropathy, assessed on the first day and then after every 3 foot training sessions. The results showed a decrease in peripheral neuropathy symptoms, lower blood glucose levels, and improved overall foot health. The findings suggest that foot exercises using a modified tennis ball can be an effective and practical approach to managing peripheral neuropathy in type-2 DM patients. This method not only alleviates symptoms but also contributes to better glycemic control and overall foot health, enhancing the quality of life for those affected.


Keywords: diabetes mellitus, type-2 DM, peripheral neuropathy, diabetic foot exercises, tennis ball modified foot exercises, foot care
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