Changes of the gait parameters and sensory-motor deficit associated with peripheral diabetic neuropathy

Abstract

Peripheral nervous system impairment with sensory and motor loss, as observed in diabetic neuropathy, might induce severe effects on balance control and gait in this population. Objective: To evaluation the performance of the gait and the sensory-motors changes, due of the peripheral diabetic neuropathy (PDN). Method: Participated twenty four individuals with PDN and twenty eight healthy individuals without glycemic alterations indicative of diabetes. Participants were subjected to confirm the clinical diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy through the tactile sensitivity of the soles of the feet with monofilament test. Subsequently, ankle angular variation in static condition and during the gait was investigated through kinematics. The ankle muscle strength was investigated using a digital dynamometer. Results: Diabetic neuropathy group showed greater duration in double support and full support periods of gait than control group with impairment in balance control. Diabetic neuropathy group showed reduces muscle strength of plantiflexors and dorsiflexors. Conclusion: The losses sensory-motors deriving from PDN may imply in impairment in gait performance, with consequent loss of balance.