Effect of reflexology on ankle brachial index, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and glycemic control in older adults with diabetes: A randomized controlled trial

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of foot reflexology on ankle brachial index, diabetic peripheral neuropathy and glycemic control in older adults with diabetes. A randomized controlled, parallel-group trial study was conducted at the outpatient elderly health center in Bolu, Turkey. 48 adults aged 65 and over enrolled in the elderly health center were randomized into two groups in a ratio of 1:1 (experimental, n = 24; control, n = 24). Foot reflexology was performed for 12-week in the experimental group, whereas the control group continued their routine treatment and follow-up. The outcome measures included: (1) ankle brachial index, (2) diabetic peripheral neuropathy measured by a comprehensive foot exam, and (3) glycemic control by a glycated hemoglobin A blood test at baseline and after 12 weeks. Post-test diabetic peripheral neuropathy scores (p