Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Physical Therapy for Cardiopulmonary and Geriatrics Disorders

Purpose: To determine the effect of electroacupuncture in diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Subject and methods: Randomized single-blinded trial design, 60 diabetic patients type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with peripheral neuropathy, not less than 5 years, from both sexes (32 males and 28 females), their age range from 50{u2013}65 years, with body mass index(BMI) range from 30 to 34.9 kg/m2 type 1 obesity. The patients were randomly assigned into 2 equal groups in numbers: group A, 30 patients were treated by electroacupuncture therapy and traditional physiotherapy sessions in form of aerobic walking exercises, balance exercises, active free range of motion foot exercises, and home routine exercises for 12 weeks, three sessions weekly 40 minutes; and group B, 30 patients were treated by only traditional physiotherapy sessions. Electroacupuncture therapy was applied 30 minutes per session, 3 sessions weekly for 12 weeks in 12 acupuncture points at the bilateral (ST36, GB39, SP9, SP6, LR3 and GB41). Motor nerves conduction velocity and quality of life were assessed before and after treatment through tibial motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV), common peroneal motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) and the short form (SF-36) quality of life questionnaire. Results: Significant increase in motor nerves conduction velocity and quality of life questionnaire outcomes were detected in group (A) more than group (B) (P<0.05)

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