The Effect of Diabetic Foot Exercises on Foot Sensitivity in Diabetes Mellitus Patients at Primasari Clinic, Kismantoro, Wonogiri

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of diabetic foot exercise on foot sensitivity among patients with diabetes mellitus at Klinik Primasari Kismantoro, Wonogiri. Diabetes mellitus may cause peripheral nerve disorders that reduce foot sensitivity and increase the risk of injuries, ulcers, and diabetic foot complications. Therefore, preventive interventions are needed to maintain foot health and improve patients’ quality of life. This research employed a pre-experimental method with a one-group pretest-posttest design. A total of 32 patients with diabetes mellitus participated in the study and were selected based on criteria. Foot sensitivity was assessed before and after the intervention to identify changes resulting from the exercise program. The intervention consisted of six sessions of structured diabetic foot exercise performed under guidance. The findings showed improvement in foot sensitivity after the intervention. Before the exercise program, most participants were classified as having moderate foot sensitivity, whereas after completing six sessions, the majority moved to the good sensitivity category. These results indicate that regular diabetic foot exercise can improve blood circulation, stimulate peripheral nerves, and enhance foot sensitivity. In conclusion, diabetic foot exercise is an effective, simple, non-pharmacological intervention that may help prevent diabetic foot complications and can be incorporated into routine diabetes care.