Postural Control and Functional Strength in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus With and Without Peripheral Neuropathy

Abstract Objective To assess the influence of diabetic neuropathy (DN) on balance and functional strength in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2). Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Diabetes outpatient unit. Participants Adults (N=62; age range, 40–65y): 32 with DM2 (19 subjects without DN and 13 with DN) and 30 without DM2 (control group). Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Upright balance, evaluated in 4 situations (fixed platform, unstable platform, with eyes open, with eyes closed), and functional strength, assessed with a five-times-sit-to-stand test, were analyzed using an electromagnetic system, with a sensor placed over C7 to allow maximum trunk displacements in the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral directions. The Berg Balance Scale and the Timed Up & Go test were also used. Results Subjects with DM2 had greater anterior-posterior displacement ( P P Conclusions Subjects with DM2, with or without DN, showed deficits in postural control and functional strength compared with healthy individuals of the same age group.