Short-term outcomes of a comprehensive rehabilitation program with peripheral magnetic stimulation in diabetic polyneuropathy: A case report

Abstract

Polyneuropathy is a condition that affects the peripheral nervous system, often resulting in sensory and motor dysfunction in older adults. Treatment options include medications and various physical therapy modalities, such as peripheral magnetic stimulation (PMS). However, evidence supporting the use of PMS for treating nerve dysfunction remains limited. In this case, an 84-year-old man with a history of diabetes mellitus and osteoarthritis presented with bilateral lower extremity sensory and motor polyneuropathy, characterized by weakness, sensory deficits, and gait instability. After limited success with conventional treatments, a comprehensive rehabilitation program was implemented over four weeks, integrating PMS, occupational therapy, and advanced gait training.

Following this intervention, light touch sensitivity improved by up to 55.0%, and proprioception exhibited a 100.0% improvement. Furthermore, balance assessments demonstrated enhanced stability on unstable surfaces. However, nerve conduction studies revealed minimal changes in the sensory and motor functions. The combination of PMS and comprehensive rehabilitation strategies demonstrated promising benefits in improving sensory functions and balance, despite inconclusive nerve conduction study results. This case highlights the potential of a multifaceted rehabilitation approach in the management of polyneuropathy, and future research with larger sample sizes and longer treatment durations is necessary to confirm these findings and evaluate the long-term efficacy.