Effects of a sensory reeducation program in type 2 diabetics

Abstract

Introduction. Diabetes mellitus (DM) causes serious complications. Among it, the of lower limbs, responsible for a high number of amputations, decreased quality of life and death. Preventive care is primordial and decisive. Objective. To evaluate the effects of a sensory re-education program on the sensitivity of the feet and the quality of life of individuals with type 2 DM. Method. The tactile and vibratory sensitivity the symptoms in the feet and the quality of life, assessed by the Brazilian version of the questionnaire Problem Areas in Diabetes (B-PAID), were evaluated in fifteen patients with type 2 DM, seven participated of the program realized in group twice a week for a month. A circuit composed of ten stations with stimulus related to variations of temperature and texture was used. It was conducted descriptive and inferential analysis of data. Results. It was observed a difference of the tactile sensitivity in the innervation territory of the saphenous nerve. There was decrease in the symptoms in the feet; and improvement in aspects related to quality of life. Conclusion. It is suggested that the proposed program can contribute to improve of the sensitivity and thus be another tool to prevent complications, yonder of improve the quality of life of individuals with type 2 diabetes © 2015, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo. All rights reserved.