Jurnal Ners
Vol. 10 No. 4 (2026): OKTOBER 2026

The Effectiveness of Foot Exercises on Foot Sensitivity and the Risk of Foot Ulcers in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Ambo Anto (Famika University)
Rijalul Fikri (Nani Hasanuddin Institute)
Faisal Faisal (Famika University)
A. Warda Muzfah (Andi Sudirman University)
Jenita Laurensia Saranga (Pelamonia Institute of Health Sciences)
Rismanudin Rismanudin (Famika University)



Article Info

Publish Date
18 Oct 2026

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that may cause peripheral neuropathy and impaired blood circulation in the lower extremities. Reduced foot sensitivity increases the possibility of unnoticed injuries and subsequent ulcer formation. Foot exercises are a simple, non-invasive intervention that may support neuromuscular function, improve peripheral circulation, and maintain foot sensitivity. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of foot exercises in improving foot sensitivity and reducing the risk of foot ulcers among patients with diabetes mellitus. A quantitative quasi-experimental study was conducted using a pretest–posttest design. The study involved 72 patients with diabetes mellitus who met the predetermined inclusion criteria. Participants received a structured foot exercise program performed regularly according to the intervention protocol. Foot sensitivity was assessed before and after the intervention using a standardized clinical assessment procedure, while the risk of foot ulcers was evaluated based on relevant clinical indicators. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests to compare changes in foot sensitivity and ulcer risk before and after the intervention. Following the foot exercise intervention, participants demonstrated an improvement in foot sensitivity accompanied by a reduction in indicators associated with foot ulcer risk. The observed changes indicated a beneficial response to regular foot exercises, particularly among participants who consistently followed the intervention. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant difference between pre-intervention and post-intervention measurements (p < 0.05). Regular foot exercises were associated with improved foot sensitivity and a lower risk profile for foot ulcers among patients with diabetes mellitus. Incorporating structured foot exercises into routine diabetes self-management may provide a practical approach to maintaining foot health and preventing diabetes-related complications. Further studies with larger samples and longer follow-up periods are recommended to evaluate the sustainability of these effects.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ners

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Medicine & Pharmacology Nursing

Description

Fokus Jurnal Ners meliputi bidang kajian riset keperawatan diantaranya Keperawatan Medikal Bedah, Keperawatan Maternitas, Keperawatan Gawat Darurat, Keperawatan Anak, Keperawatan Lansia, Keperawatan Jiwa, Keperawatan Keluarga, Keperawatan Masyarakat, Manajemen Keperawatan dan Terapi Komplementer ...