Foot reflexology as an adjunctive approach in diabetic neuropathic pain: A case-based review

Background: Diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) is a common chronic complication of diabetes mellitus associated with persistent pain, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and impaired quality of life. This case-based review aimed to evaluate the potential supportive role of foot reflexology as an adjunct to standard medical treatment in DNP.Methods: A 76-year-old woman with DNP received 30-minute foot reflexology sessions once weekly for four consecutive weeks without changes to her ongoing medical treatment. Neuropathic pain, sleep quality, and anxiety were assessed before and after treatment using the Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS), Jenkins Sleep Scale (JSS), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), respectively. The clinical findings were interpreted in the context of relevant literature on DNP and reflexology.Main Findings: Following treatment, the LANSS score decreased from 18 to 15, the JSS score from 15 to 10, and the BAI score from 20 to 16. No treatment-related adverse events or complications were observed. These findings suggest concurrent short-term improvements in neuropathic pain, sleep quality, and anxiety.Conclusion: Foot reflexology may have a supportive role as an adjunct to standard medical treatment within multidisciplinary DNP management. However, larger randomized controlled studies with standardized protocols and long-term follow-up are required to establish its clinical effectiveness.