OS EFEITOS DAS MICROCORRENTES E DO EXERCÍCIO TERAPÊUTICO NA ÚLCERA DIABÉTICA

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is characterized as a group of metabolic diseases. It consists of one of the most serious health problems today, both in terms of the number of people affected, disabilities, early mortality, and in relation to the costs involved in the control and treatment of its complications. Because of these, diabetic patients have high rates of mortality and morbidity compared to non-diabetics. Objective: This research was based on verifying the effects of microcurrents and therapeutic exercise on diabetic ulcers. Methods: This is a case report, carried out on the premises of the Teaching Unit of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy (UEAFTO) of the State University of Pará, from September to October 2012, in the afternoon, totaling 20 sessions interspersed 3 times a week. The study sample consisted of a male patient, with a clinical diagnosis of type II diabetes mellitus 18 years ago. Result: The measurement of the ulcer allowed to follow the evolution of the healing process. During the evaluation and initiation of therapy, it was found that the lesion surface was 38.09 cm², corresponding to 100% of the ulcer surface. In the 5th service, a reduction of 25% (10.11cm²) was recorded. In the 10th visit there was a decrease of 61% (23.11cm²) in the total area of the ulcer. In the 15th service, the study obtained partial results, with a reduction of 66% (25.17cm²) of the total area. The study was completed at the 20th visit, in which a reduction of 97% (37.01cm²) of the total ulcer area was obtained. Conclusion: In the present case study, the application of microcurrents associated with the performance of therapeutic exercises proved to be clinically effective in the treatment of diabetic ulcers, as it was possible to evidence the evolution of the ulcer in terms of its healing process and improved functionality of the affected lower limb