Objective: This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) plus exercise treatment on the pain level and quality of life of older adults with diabetic neuropathic pain.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of older adults with diabetic neuropathic pain who completed 6 weeks of physiotherapy program (TENS application; 5 days a week, 20 minutes per day and various exercises like strengthening, stretching exercises, mat activities, functional activities, and range of motion exercises). The outcome measures were the body diagram, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and Nottingham Health Profile (NHP).

Results: 16 patients participated to the study. The median age of the patients was 70 (65-83) years. When the pain levels of the patients were examined the mean, severe, the least, and current pain levels of the patients decreased (P<0.05), and according to NHP scores it was observed that the pain, emotional reactions, sleep subscales, and total NHP points decreased meaningfully after the treatment (P<0.05).

Conclusion: The results of the study showed that TENS plus exercise treatment reduced pain severity and improved quality of life in patients with geriatric diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and promises hope for patients with diabetic neuropathic pain, which does not have a full therapy yet.