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Far-Infrared Socks for Neuropathic Pain and Nerve Function in Diabetic Patients
Sponsor: TC Erciyes University
Summary
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of far-infrared radiation (FIR) emitting socks in improving neuropathic pain, nerve conduction, and quality of life in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). It is the first comprehensive study in Turkey investigating FIR technology for DPN treatment and offers an alternative approach to traditional methods.The study will be conducted at Erciyes University Gevher Nesibe Hospital between February 2025 and June 2026 as a randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a triple-blind design. Participants will be assigned to either the FIR socks group or the placebo group, with both groups receiving two pairs of socks to wear daily. Assessments will include the Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS) Scale, the Neuropathic Pain Impact on Quality of Life (NePIQoL) questionnaire, and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for patient-reported outcomes. Electroneuromyography (ENMG) testing will also be performed before and after the intervention to assess nerve function. This research is expected to provide clinical evidence on FIR socks as a non-pharmacological treatment for neuropathic pain, contributing to improved patient care and the development of innovative medical technologies in Turkey.
Official title: Effect of Far-Infrared Emitting Socks on Neuropathic Pain, Nerve Conduction, and Quality of Life in Patients With Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
19 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
50
Start Date
2025-02-02
Completion Date
2026-06-30
Last Updated
2025-03-19
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Far-Infrared Radiation (FIR) Socks
Participants in the experimental group will receive two pairs of Far-Infrared Radiation (FIR) emitting socks, designed to be worn for at least 8 hours per day over a 3-month period. These socks utilize FIR technology, which is hypothesized to improve circulation, reduce neuropathic pain, and enhance quality of life in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Participants will be educated on the proper use of the socks, provided with a usage protocol, and monitored for adherence via three follow-up phone calls assessing compliance and comfort using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). At the end of the study, participants will undergo a follow-up Electroneuromyography (ENMG) evaluation, and pain and quality of life will be reassessed using the LANSS Scale and NePIQoL forms.
Placebo Socks
Participants in the placebo group will receive two pairs of non-FIR socks, which are visually identical to the FIR socks but lack FIR-emitting properties. They will follow the same 8-hour daily usage protocol for 3 months and receive the same education on sock usage. Compliance and comfort will be monitored through three follow-up phone calls, and assessments will be conducted using the VAS, LANSS Scale, and NePIQoL forms. At the end of the study, participants will undergo a final ENMG evaluation.This study aims to determine the effect of FIR socks on neuropathic pain, nerve conduction, and quality of life, using both subjective (pain scales) and objective (ENMG) measures.
Locations (1)
Erciyes Üniversitesi
Talas, Kayseri, Turkey (Türkiye)