In India, leprosy has shown a remarkable decline in prevalence; however, longterm disability persists. Patients undergoing physiotherapy are prescribed exercises and advised following selfcare measures to prevent sensory and motor complications. Despite these interventions, adherence to selfcare remains understudied. This study aims to determine adherence to self-care practices among leprosy patients with peripheral neuropathy who are undergoing physiotherapy. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 70 leprosy patients with peripheral neuropathy undergoing physiotherapy in tertiary hospitals in Sangli, Maharashtra. A paper-based questionnaire on self-care behaviours related to peripheral neuropathy was administered. Domain-wise and question-wise analysis was performed. Overall, 57 (81.43%) of patients showed fair self-care, while only 13(18.57%) demonstrated good selfcare. Adherence to sensory selfcare was satisfactory for basic hand, foot care and footwear inspection, but very few patients practiced adequate rest and offloading on foot wounds. For motor neuropathy, 28(40%) of patients did not perform all prescribed exercises, including stretching, mobility, and strengthening. The study highlights the importance of adherence to self-care practices among leprosy patients. Addressing these gaps is critical to preventing disability. Strengthening patient education and awareness, especially regarding home exercise routines, should be prioritized to enhance self-care and reduce longterm complications.
BT - Indian Journal of Leprosy DA - 05/2026 LA - ENG M3 - Article N2 -In India, leprosy has shown a remarkable decline in prevalence; however, longterm disability persists. Patients undergoing physiotherapy are prescribed exercises and advised following selfcare measures to prevent sensory and motor complications. Despite these interventions, adherence to selfcare remains understudied. This study aims to determine adherence to self-care practices among leprosy patients with peripheral neuropathy who are undergoing physiotherapy. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 70 leprosy patients with peripheral neuropathy undergoing physiotherapy in tertiary hospitals in Sangli, Maharashtra. A paper-based questionnaire on self-care behaviours related to peripheral neuropathy was administered. Domain-wise and question-wise analysis was performed. Overall, 57 (81.43%) of patients showed fair self-care, while only 13(18.57%) demonstrated good selfcare. Adherence to sensory selfcare was satisfactory for basic hand, foot care and footwear inspection, but very few patients practiced adequate rest and offloading on foot wounds. For motor neuropathy, 28(40%) of patients did not perform all prescribed exercises, including stretching, mobility, and strengthening. The study highlights the importance of adherence to self-care practices among leprosy patients. Addressing these gaps is critical to preventing disability. Strengthening patient education and awareness, especially regarding home exercise routines, should be prioritized to enhance self-care and reduce longterm complications.
PY - 2026 SP - 277 EP - 282 T2 - Indian Journal of Leprosy TI - A Survey to Estimate Adherence to Self-Care Practices among Leprosy Patients with Peripheral Neuropathy Undergoing Physiotherapy UR - https://www.ijl.org.in/published-articles/30092026095504/6_Original_Article_Jadhav_et_al_July_Sept_2026_print_version.pdf VL - 98 ER -