Hand tendon gliding exercises allow both the flexor digitorum profundus and superficialis tendons of hands to achieve the greatest range of motion. Thus, in conjunction with resistive exercises for diabetic hands, such exercises are considered an appropriate home-based training method that has positive effects on various diabetic hand problems in terms of regaining smooth tendon excursion, preventing joint contracture, and reducing intrinsic muscle tightness. Different from the biomechanical approach to deal with hand problems, a biofeedback system can be used to provide real-time information on improper movements during task-based training intended to enhance either performance quality or accuracy. This study aims to analyze the difference in treatment effects between a computerized evaluation and a re-education biofeedback system that provides interactive sensorimotor information to shape the optimized coordinated pinch pattern of a hand and a home-based tendon gliding exercise program in conjunction with resistive exercise with weekly supervision on sensorimotor function and quality of life for diabetic patients. The investigators hypothesize the task-based biofeedback training using the biofeedback training system could have significant effectiveness for restoration of sensory function, precision pinch performance, hand dexterity and life quality for patients with diabetic neuropathy.
This study is to investigate the effects of task-based biofeedback training compared with home-based programs on sensorimotor function and quality of life for diabetic patients with neuropathic hands. The investigators hypothesize that the task-based biofeedback training might have significant effectiveness for restoration of sensory function, precision pinch performance, hand dexterity and life quality for patients with diabetic neuropathy.