Immediate Effects of Self-Thai Foot Massage on Skin Blood Flow, Skin Temperature, and Range of Motion of the Foot and Ankle in Type 2 Diabetic Patients.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate effects of self-Thai foot massages (STFMs) on the foot skin blood flow, the foot skin temperature, and range of motion (ROM) of the foot and ankle in type 2 diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy.

Design

A randomized crossover study. Subjects: Twenty five diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy were recruited. Interventions: Participants were randomly assigned to either STFM or Thai foot massage (TFM) performed by a massage therapist; then, they were switched to the other group after a 1-week washout period. In both groups, the foot massage was performed in a seated position on the dominant lower leg and foot for 25 min. Outcome measures: Before and immediately after treatment, foot skin blood flow, foot skin temperature, and ROM of the foot and ankle were evaluated. Heart rate was measured throughout the treatment.

Results

After a single treatment of the massage, foot skin blood flow and ROM of the foot and ankle significantly improved in both groups (p < 0.05). Foot skin temperature did not change in STFM, whereas it significantly increased in TFM. Heart rate significantly increased in STFM, whereas it tended to decrease in TFM.

Conclusions

Both STFM and TFM by a massage therapist could improve foot skin blood flow and ROM of the foot and ankle in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy. An STFM could be a promising alternative treatment that patients can perform at home.