Comparison of Kinesio Taping and Nerve Flossing Technique on Balance, Gait and Ankle Flexibility in Diabetic Neuropathy

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic Neuropathy (DN) is the most frequent neuropathy in developed countries, with a wide spectrum of clinical symptoms. Kinesiology Tape (KT) is a thin, stretchy, elastic cotton strip with an acrylic adhesive almost identical to human skin in both thickness and elasticity. Nerve Flossing Technique (NFT) is an alternation of combined movements of atleast two joints. Aim: To assess and compare the effects of KT and NFT on diabetic neuropathy patients’ balance, gait and ankle flexibility. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was conducted in Outpatient Department of Physiotherapy at SGT University, Gurugram, Haryana, India, from March 2021 to May 2021. Total 20 diabetic neuropathy patients were conveniently included from the hospital environment and were divided into two treatment groups. Group A (KT) included 10 patients, kinesio taping along with conventional physiotherapy and group B (NFT) included 10 patients, nerve flossing technique along with conventional physiotherapy. In both the groups, treatment was provided for three days a week for two weeks to improve their balance, gait and ankle flexibility. Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) scores were utilised to assess balance and gait, and a universal goniometer was used to assess ankle Range Of Motion (ROM). Data was analysed by using Independent and Paired t-test. Results: The mean age in group A was 55.3±5.056 years and in group B was 55±4.714 years and there was no significant difference (t=0.137, p-value=0.892). There was a significant difference in POMA score in both the groups (t=-5.344, p-value<0.001) after two weeks of treatment. Ankle joint ROM was improved in group B than group A. Conclusion: The study concludes that KT improves balance and gait more than NFT, whereas NFT improves ankle range of motion more than KT in diabetic neuropathic patients.