Enhancing Peripheral Circulation through Buerger Allen Exercise among Diabetic Patients

Abstract Background: Peripheral circulation impairment is a common complication in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), often resulting in serious outcomes such as diabetic foot ulcers and lower limb amputations. These issues significantly contribute to the morbidity and mortality associated with T2DM. Exercise-based interventions are increasingly recognized as effective in improving peripheral circulation in diabetic patients. Objective: The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Buerger Allen exercises (BAEs) in improving peripheral circulation among patients with T2DM. Materials and Methods: A pre-experimental one-group pretest posttest design was adopted, involving 60 T2DM patients from SGT Hospital, Gurugram. Peripheral circulation was assessed before and after the intervention using the modified 60-second foot screen tool. Participants performed supervised BAEs, consisting of specific foot and ankle movements, two to three times daily. Posttest assessments were conducted after the intervention period. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, paired t tests, and correlation analysis. Results: The study found a statistically significant improvement in peripheral circulation following the intervention. The mean pretest score was 0.68 (SD = 0.09), increasing to 0.74 (SD = 0.08) posttest. A paired t test showed a significant difference ( t (59) = −4.32, P < 0.001) with a moderate effect size ( d = 0.65). A positive correlation ( r = 0.45, P < 0.05) was observed between exercise frequency and circulation improvement. Conclusion: BAEs effectively improved peripheral circulation in T2DM patients. These findings highlight the value of integrating structured exercise programs into routine diabetes care to prevent vascular complications.