EFFECTIVENESS OF COMBINING LEMONGRASS ESSENTIAL OIL AND FOOT EXERCISES USING MARBLES ON FOOT SENSITIVITY IN TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS PATIENTS

Abstract

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition experienced by patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, characterized by decreased nerve sensitivity, numbness, and loss of taste in the lower extremities. Foot care approaches such as foot exercises and the use of essential oils are considered effective alternatives to improve nerve sensitivity. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Lemongrass Essential Oil (ESSOL) combined with foot exercises using marbles to increase foot sensitivity in Type 2 diabetic patients. This research employs a quantitative study with a quasi-experimental approach using a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The sample was taken based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, totaling 40 respondents. The sample was divided into two groups: an intervention group and a control group. Feet sensitivity was measured using a monofilament test before and after intervention. The results show a significant increase in foot sensitivity values in the intervention group compared to the control group. Statistical analysis shows a p-value < 0.05, which indicates that the combination of ESSOL therapy and gymnastic media foot marbles was effective in increasing the sensitivity of type 2 diabetic patients.  This combination has proven effective as a non-pharmacological intervention to enhance the sensitivity of type 2 diabetic patients.