Effects of extracorporeal shock waves on neuralgia in diabetic rats

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to observe the effects of extracorporeal shock waves (ECSWs) on neuralgia in diabetic rats. Materials and methods: Diabetic neuralgia model was established in rats via injection of streptozotocin. The rats were divided into diabetic neuralgia group (Group A, n=6) and ECSW treatment group (Group B, n=6). Another six rats were taken as control group (Group C, n=6). The mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and thermal withdrawal latencies (TWLs) were measured at specific points throughout the experiment, and the sciatic nerve was bluntly severed under anesthesia after the last measurement. The protein expressions of Sphk1 and TNF-α were detected by Western blot, and the mRNA expressions of Sphk1 and TNF-α were detected by reverse transcription PCR. The structure of the sciatic nerve was observed by electron microscopy. Results: Compared with Group C, MWT and TWLs were decreased significantly in Groups A and B (PPPConclusion: ECSWs can relieve neuralgia in diabetic rats. Sphk1 and TNF-α may be involved in the occurrence and development of diabetic peripheral neuralgia.