Effects of Thai Foot Massage on Balance Performance in Diabetic Patients [Research Perch]

Posted:Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Listen in as we discuss, “Effects of Thai Foot Massage on Balance Performance in Diabetic Patients with Peripheral Neuropathy: A Randomized Parallel-Controlled Trial.” Dr. Jerrilyn Cambron and Ruth Werner walk through the implications of the article and how it might inform practice and enable therapists to better serve their clients.

PDF article from Medical Science Pain Monitor Basic Research

You can also download an audio-only version of this episode here.

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Study Questions:

1. According to the article, Thai massage is considered deep massage. No side effects were discussed in the paper. Do you have any concerns about this form of care for older diabetic patients?
2. There were several theories about the mechanisms of action in the introduction and discussion sections of this article. Which of the theories seem most logical and biologically plausible?
3. Based on this article, patients with diabetes might need massage therapy on a regular basis to maintain an active life. What efforts might need to be put into place for this to happen?