Diabetes In Control Study #15 

WarmFeet^® Relaxation Study 

Birgitta I. Rice, MS, RPh, CHES 

Background:  The problem of limited peripheral blood flow in the senior population and those with diabetes is well known.  A large percentage of health care costs and personal physical loss can be attributed to peripheral vascular disease and resultant illnesses, with need for arterial revascularisation and amputations.  One way to help modify these problems is a preventive position of teaching clients to increase blood flow naturally with relaxation therapy.  Rice et al.2001.  

Significance of study:  This study will attempt to complete an unexplored area of current investigations, which includes mind-body therapies and the way they are being taught.  We are seeking to work with elderly, and persons with diabetes who are having problems with peripheral circulation. Without changing their pharmaceutical balance we want to test if this technique can provide a measure of relief (with increased blood flow to their feet) by using a lifestyle intervention. 

Statement of the Problem: Does the biofeedback assisted relaxation training program WarmFeet®, which will be taught by trained although volunteering health professionals, make a significant change in measurement of pain and/or healing in the feet of a population with limited peripheral blood flow? 

Methods:

Twenty-five plus health professionals, nurses or CDEs, with main orientation in the following areas:  vascular, endocrine, diabetes, podiatry, wound healing, dermatology, surgery, neurology will teach up to six of their patients with limited peripheral blood flow the WarmFeet® technique. 

As subscribers of the Diabetes in Control Newsletter the healthcare professionals can show their interest to participate in the study by filling out a short survey.   Upon receipt of your request, someone will contact you with more information. 

Training of the health professionals:  Training materials, list of published references, data collection forms, a biofeedback thermometer and up to 6 copies of the WarmFeet® Kits will be sent out to each educator. 

To Sign Up to Participate:   Click Here