APPLICATION OF FOOT REFLEXOLOGY MASSAGE TO REDUCE BLOOD GLUCOSE LEVELS IN DIABETES MELLITUS

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease characterized by elevated blood glucose levels due to impaired insulin production or function. Unstable blood glucose levels in DM patients can lead to various serious complications. One non-pharmacological therapy that may help reduce blood glucose levels is foot reflexology, which stimulates reflex points associated with pancreatic function. Based on medical records from Alamanda 1 Ward RSUD Sleman, there were 118 patients diagnosed with DM between January and August 2025. Objective: To describe the implementation of foot reflexology therapy in lowering blood glucose levels in DM patients at Alamanda 1 Ward RSUD Sleman. Method: A descriptive case study on one DM patient. Foot reflexology therapy was applied for 20 minutes, twice daily, over two consecutive days. Data were collected through pre- and post-therapy blood glucose measurements. Results: After two days of therapy, the patient's blood glucose level decreased from 374 mg/dL to 222 mg/dL. Conclusion: Foot reflexology therapy may help reduce blood glucose levels in DM patients. Suggestion: This therapy can be considered as an alternative non-pharmacological approach in the management of blood glucose levels in DM patients.