Comparison Of Foot Exercises And Electric Stimulation To Foot Circulation In Patients With Diabetes Mellitus In The City Of Lhokseumawe

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Improving Foot Circulation in Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Comparative Study of Foot Exercises and Electric Stimulation

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic condition characterized by an increase in glucose levels in the blood, leading to various complications, including impaired blood flow and increased risk of wounds, particularly in the leg area. Effective management of DM requires a comprehensive approach, including lifestyle modifications, medication, and therapeutic interventions to prevent disruption of blood flow. Two promising methods for improving foot circulation in DM patients are foot exercises and electric stimulation. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these two interventions in increasing foot circulation in DM patients in the city of Lhokseumawe.

The Importance of Foot Circulation in Diabetes Mellitus Patients

Diabetes mellitus is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and its prevalence is increasing rapidly. One of the most significant complications of DM is impaired blood flow, which can lead to wounds, ulcers, and even amputation. The risk of developing foot ulcers is particularly high in DM patients, and it is estimated that up to 50% of patients with DM will develop foot ulcers at some point in their lives. Therefore, it is essential to take steps to prevent disruption of blood flow and promote healthy foot circulation.

Foot Exercises: A Promising Intervention for Improving Foot Circulation

Foot exercises have been widely used as a non-invasive and cost-effective method for improving foot circulation. These exercises involve a series of movements that help to increase blood flow to the feet, including toe curls, heel raises, and ankle rotations. Studies have shown that foot exercises can significantly improve foot circulation and reduce the risk of developing foot ulcers in DM patients. However, the effectiveness of foot exercises may be limited by factors such as age, joint mobility, and overall health.

Electric Stimulation: A More Effective Alternative for Improving Foot Circulation

Electric stimulation is a non-invasive method that uses electrical impulses to stimulate blood flow to the feet. This method has been shown to be more effective than foot exercises in improving foot circulation and reducing the risk of developing foot ulcers in DM patients. Electric stimulation works by triggering the release of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Nitric Oxide (NO), which play a crucial role in repairing blood vessels and increasing tissue growth. These mechanisms contribute to an increase in blood flow that is more effective than foot exercises.

Research Methodology

This study used a Quasi-experiment design with a Pre and Post Test Without Control approach. The sample consisted of 126 respondents, who were divided into two groups: 63 respondents carried out foot exercises and 63 respondents received electric stimulation. The selection of samples was carried out using Consecutive Sampling techniques. Data analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test to measure changes before and after intervention, and the Mann Whitney U test to compare the effects of the two interventions.

Research Results

The results of this study showed that both foot exercises and electric stimulation can significantly improve foot circulation in DM patients. However, the ratio between the two interventions showed that electric stimulation has a better effect in increasing foot circulation, with a foot exercise rank of 51.69, while electric stimulation reached 75.31 (p-value = 0.000).

Implications for Nursing Services

The results of this study provide important insights for nursing services, especially in providing modalities therapy that can help increase blood flow in DM patients. Electric stimulation can be a more effective alternative than foot exercises to increase foot circulation and prevent more serious complications, such as diabetes wounds. Therefore, health service providers are expected to consider the application of electric stimulation as part of the treatment plan for diabetes patients, to help improve their quality of life and prevent more serious circulation problems in the future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of improving foot circulation in DM patients and the effectiveness of foot exercises and electric stimulation in achieving this goal. While foot exercises are a promising intervention, electric stimulation is a more effective alternative for improving foot circulation and reducing the risk of developing foot ulcers in DM patients. Therefore, health service providers should consider the application of electric stimulation as part of the treatment plan for diabetes patients, to help improve their quality of life and prevent more serious circulation problems in the future.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

  1. Health service providers should consider the application of electric stimulation as part of the treatment plan for diabetes patients.
  2. Foot exercises should be continued as a non-invasive and cost-effective method for improving foot circulation.
  3. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of electric stimulation on foot circulation and the prevention of diabetes wounds.
  4. Health education programs should be implemented to raise awareness about the importance of foot care and the prevention of diabetes wounds.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations, including:

  1. The sample size was relatively small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
  2. The study was conducted in a single setting, which may limit the applicability of the findings to other settings.
  3. The study did not control for other factors that may affect foot circulation, such as age, joint mobility, and overall health.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on exploring the long-term effects of electric stimulation on foot circulation and the prevention of diabetes wounds. Additionally, studies should be conducted to investigate the effectiveness of electric stimulation in other populations, such as patients with peripheral artery disease and those with limited joint mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions: Improving Foot Circulation in Diabetes Mellitus Patients

Q: What is the importance of foot circulation in diabetes mellitus patients?

A: Foot circulation is crucial for diabetes mellitus patients as impaired blood flow can lead to wounds, ulcers, and even amputation. Effective management of DM requires a comprehensive approach, including lifestyle modifications, medication, and therapeutic interventions to prevent disruption of blood flow.

Q: What are the benefits of foot exercises in improving foot circulation?

A: Foot exercises have been widely used as a non-invasive and cost-effective method for improving foot circulation. These exercises can help increase blood flow to the feet, reduce the risk of developing foot ulcers, and improve overall foot health.

Q: What is electric stimulation, and how does it improve foot circulation?

A: Electric stimulation is a non-invasive method that uses electrical impulses to stimulate blood flow to the feet. This method has been shown to be more effective than foot exercises in improving foot circulation and reducing the risk of developing foot ulcers in DM patients. Electric stimulation works by triggering the release of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Nitric Oxide (NO), which play a crucial role in repairing blood vessels and increasing tissue growth.

Q: What are the differences between foot exercises and electric stimulation in improving foot circulation?

A: While both foot exercises and electric stimulation can improve foot circulation, electric stimulation is a more effective alternative. Electric stimulation has a better effect in increasing foot circulation, with a foot exercise rank of 51.69, while electric stimulation reached 75.31 (p-value = 0.000).

Q: Who can benefit from electric stimulation in improving foot circulation?

A: Electric stimulation can benefit anyone with diabetes mellitus, especially those with impaired foot circulation. However, it is particularly beneficial for elderly patients and those who experience limited joint mobility.

Q: How can I incorporate electric stimulation into my treatment plan for diabetes mellitus?

A: Health service providers should consider the application of electric stimulation as part of the treatment plan for diabetes patients. Electric stimulation can be used in conjunction with other therapies, such as foot exercises, to improve foot circulation and prevent more serious complications.

Q: What are the potential risks and side effects of electric stimulation?

A: Electric stimulation is generally a safe and well-tolerated treatment. However, as with any medical treatment, there may be potential risks and side effects, such as skin irritation, muscle fatigue, and nerve damage. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting electric stimulation therapy.

Q: How can I prevent foot ulcers and improve foot circulation in diabetes mellitus patients?

A: Preventing foot ulcers and improving foot circulation requires a comprehensive approach, including:

  1. Regular foot inspections and monitoring
  2. Proper foot care, including washing and drying the feet
  3. Wearing properly fitting shoes and socks
  4. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
  5. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking or exercises
  6. Considering electric stimulation therapy as part of the treatment plan

Q: What are the future research directions for improving foot circulation in diabetes mellitus patients?

A: Future research should focus on exploring the long-term effects of electric stimulation on foot circulation and the prevention of diabetes wounds. Additionally, studies should be conducted to investigate the effectiveness of electric stimulation in other populations, such as patients with peripheral artery disease and those with limited joint mobility.

Q: How can I get more information about electric stimulation and foot circulation in diabetes mellitus patients?

A: You can consult with a healthcare professional, such as a primary care physician, podiatrist, or physical therapist, to learn more about electric stimulation and foot circulation in diabetes mellitus patients. Additionally, you can search for reputable online resources, such as the American Diabetes Association or the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, for more information.