Balance and ankle strength could predict spatiotemporal gait in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, according to data recently published in Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews.
Researchers conducted a study of 30 patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and 30 control patients to evaluate aspects of balance, ankle muscle strength and gait parameters, and to determine if deficits in spatiotemporal gait were associated with strength and balance.
Gait parameters were evaluated by measuring the time to walk a set distance during self-selected and maximal walking speeds. Functional mobility and balance performance were assessed using the functional reach and the time-up-and-go (TUG) tests. Ankle isometric muscle strength was assessed with a handheld digital dynamometer.
Variance was analyzed employed to verify possible differences between groups and conditions, and multiple linear regression analysis was employed to uncover possible predictors of gait deficits.
Findings showed that gait spatiotemporal, functional mobility, balance performance and ankle muscle strength were affected in individuals with DPN. TUG test performance and ankle muscle isometric strength were associated to spatiotemporal gait changes, especially during maximal walking speed condition, the study found.
Reference:
Camargo M, et al. Diabetes Metab Syndr. 2015;doi:10.1016/j.dsx.2015.02.004.
Disclosure: The authors report no relevant financial disclosures.
