Effect of foot muscle energy technique in patients with diabetic neuropathy: a randomized controlled trial

Introduction This study investigated the effect of foot muscle energy technique (MET) on nerve conduction velocity (NCV) and isometric muscle strength in patients with type 2 diabetic neuropathy (DN). Methods Forty-four patients were randomly assigned to either the MET group (group A) or the conventional physical therapy program group (group B). Electrophysiological measurements, including peroneal and tibial motor NCV studies, and isometric muscle strength using a toe strength dynamometer, were conducted. The assessment period ranged from April to November 2022, with measurements taken before the first session and after 4 weeks of treatment. Results Significant improvements were observed in post-treatment peroneal motor NCV (<i>p</i> < 0.001), tibial motor NCV (<i>p</i> < 0.001), and isometric muscle strength (<i>p</i> < 0.001) in group A, but not in group B. Conclusions MET enhances motor NCV and isometric muscle strength in patients with type 2 DN.