Effects of an exercise intervention (Tai Chi) on diabetic peripheral neuropathy in a mHealth model

Abstract

Background: E-health interventions can promote physical activity among adults in the short term, but there is still a lack of evidence on long-term effects.We conducted a randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness as well as the sustainability of the intervention. Our primary aim of this exercise intervention was to improve overall health-related quality of life （HRQoL）, and our secondary aims were to improve nerve conduction indices and glycemia. Material & methods: The study design was a parallel randomized controlled trial. The participants were randomly paired and assigned to control and intervention groups (each consisting of 50 members). Patients assigned to the intervention group received online instruction in Tai Chi exercises three times a week for three months under the guidance of a physical therapist. The intervention group was asked to use the Tencent conference application, which provided online video instruction on Tai Chi exercises. Participants in the control group received a written Tai Chi exercise program and recommendations on a sheet of paper. The primary outcome was a Change in HRQoL in the intervention group over 6 months as measured by the PCS index score. Secondary outcomes included changes in SF-36v2, NRS, PSQI, motor nerve conduction index, blood glucose, and biochemical indices. Results: When comparing the primary outcomes at 6 months, we found that there was a significant difference in PCS scores (mean difference 4.33 [95% CI 2.03,5.87]; p = 0.01). Conclusion: Web-based exercise therapy for patients may help improve exercise therapy's effectiveness in treating DPN. In this exploratory study, the exercise group consistently trended better than the conventional group for most endpoints.