Comparing Tai Chi and Otago exercises for nerve pain in diabetes
Compares two exercise programs in adults with diabetic nerve damage and pain.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: Tai Chi vs. Modified-Otago Exercises for Pain, Balance, and Motor Function in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Key facts
- Where
- Lahore, PakistanSee the site
Could this be for you?
Answer for yourself. This is not a decision: only the study team can say whether you can take part.
- Are you between 40 and 80 years old?
Source: NCT07078565, who can take part
Where in Pakistan
- Riphah Rehab Training and Research CenterLahore, PakistanTaking people
Questions to ask the study team
- How often do I need to come in, and for how long each time?
- Are travel costs paid?
- Can I keep my own doctor?
- What happens if I want to stop?
Trial details
- Who runs it
- Riphah International University
- Trial code
- NCT07078565
- Record updated
- 22 July 2025
- Original description
his randomized clinical trial evaluates the comparative effectiveness of Tai Chi and Modified-Otago exercise programs on pain reduction, balance improvement, and motor function in patients diagnosed with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). DPN is a common complication of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus that significantly impairs quality of life through chronic pain, balance deficits, and decreased functional mobility. While pharmacological treatments are commonly used, they often result in adverse side effects, creating a growing need for non-pharmacological interventions like therapeutic exercises.Read full original descriptionShow less
Comparative Effects of Tai Chi Versus Modified-Otago Exercises On Pain, Balance And Motor Function In Patients With Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
his randomized clinical trial evaluates the comparative effectiveness of Tai Chi and Modified-Otago exercise programs on pain reduction, balance improvement, and motor function in patients diagnosed with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). DPN is a common complication of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus that significantly impairs quality of life through chronic pain, balance deficits, and decreased functional mobility. While pharmacological treatments are commonly used, they often result in adverse side effects, creating a growing need for non-pharmacological interventions like therapeutic exercises.
Tai Chi, a traditional Chinese exercise combining slow movements and mental focus, has shown benefits in improving mobility and reducing fall risks in chronic disease populations. The Modified-Otago program, originally developed to prevent falls in the elderly, emphasizes strength and balance training through structured exercise routines.
A total of 36 participants (aged 40-80 years) with at least a 5-year history of Type 2 diabetes and a minimum pain score of ≥3 on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) will be recruited. Participants will be randomly allocated to either the Tai Chi group or the Modified-Otago group. Both groups will receive 24 sessions over an 8-week period (3 sessions per week), along with baseline interventions such as heating pad application, TENS, and warm-up/cool-down routines.
Primary outcome measures include NPRS for pain, the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) for balance, and the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI) for motor function. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and two weeks post-treatment. Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 26 to determine within-group and between-group differences.
This study aims to inform clinicians about effective exercise strategies for improving physical function in patients with DPN and potentially establish evidence-based rehabilitation protocols.
Inclusion: Both genders are aged 40-80 years; Patient having Types ii diabetes with Minimum of 5 years since diabetes diagnosis; Patients experiencing chronic pain for at least 6 months and level ≥ 3 on NPRS; Patient having ≥ 6 score on Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Scoring System for diabetic neuropathy.
Exclusion: Patients with ulceration/infection of feet, medical/surgical conditions; Patients suffering from stroke, parkinson's disease, or multiple sclerosis; Non-ambulatory patients.