Effects of Neural Mobilization in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Physical Therapy
• Diabetology

Background:

• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes, leading to significant morbidity.
• Current treatments for DPN offer limited efficacy and symptom relief.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review exploring the effects of neural mobilization (NM) on outcomes in adults diagnosed with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive search of five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, PEDro, Scopus) was performed up to January 2022.
• Included studies encompassed various designs: RCTs, pre-post single group, case studies, quasi-experimental, and single case studies published in English.
• Six studies involving 158 participants were included, with NM applied to tibial, upper limb, or sciatic nerves.

Main Results:

• Most included studies provided low-level evidence regarding NM's effects on DPN.
• Four studies utilized NM exclusively, while two combined it with other therapeutic strategies.
• Outcomes assessed included neuropathy screening, nerve conduction, sensory perception, lower limb function, quality of life, and imaging changes.

Conclusions:

• The current body of evidence on using neural mobilization for adults with diabetic peripheral neuropathy is sparse and of low quality.
• Insufficient evidence exists to definitively support the use of NM as a treatment for DPN.