Abstract

Background: In Saudi Arabia, physical therapy’s role in diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) needs more attention to be considered as one of the effective treatment options.
Objectives: The purpose of this study is to describe the awareness and perception of physicians in Saudi Arabia about the role of physical therapy for patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Materials and method: 350 Physicians from five regions in Saudi Arabia were invited to participate in the questionnaire. A 21-point questionnaire was validated and created for data collection, and it included three sections.
Results: A total of 202 physicians participated and finished the questionnaire out of 350 physicians. From the results of the survey, it was established that 32.2% of physicians think that physical therapists do not create enough awareness about the role of physical therapy for patients with DPN. 64.9% did not work with a physical therapist for DPN patients, and 60.9% did not refer patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy for physical therapy services.
Conclusion: This study highlights the need to promote physical therapy as an intervention choice for patients with DPN in Saudi Arabia. It is the responsibility of physical therapists to enhance the awareness and the perception of its role for patients with DPN.

Key words: Physical Therapy, Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy, Rehabilitation, diabetes Mellitus.