In a nutshell
This study examined whether the presence of diabetic neuropathy is associated with impaired balance or an increased risk of falls in patients with type 2 diabetes. The authors concluded that the presence of diabetic neuropathy is associated with impaired balance and an increased risk of falls.
Some background
Chronic high blood glucose levels can result in damage to blood vessels in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This can result in various complications, including diabetic neuropathy (DN). DN is a condition in which the nervous system becomes injured. This can particularly affect the legs and feet. It is not known whether DN impairs balance and increases the risk of falls.
Methods & findings
This study aimed to determine whether DN is associated with balance impairment and the risk of falls in T2D patients.
This study involved 198 T2D patients. The severity of DN was measured for each patient. Each patient underwent tests to determine their ability to balance and their likelihood of falling.
The presence of DN was associated with significant decreases in the ability of patients to perform functional tasks. The presence and severity of DN was also associated with increases in the number of falls. The presence and severity of DN was also associated with a reduced ability to maintain balance on one leg.
The patient’s age, severity of DN and depression symptoms were predictors for the risk of falls.
The bottom line
This study concluded that the presence of DN is associated with impaired balance and an increased risk of falls in T2D patients.
Published By :
PLOS ONE
Date :
Apr 27, 2016
