| Gait Analysis in Patients With Diabetic Polyneuropathy: A Narrative Review |
| Paper ID : 1073-ISCSR3 (R1) |
| Authors |
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Amal H. Albadawi *1, Maghfera T. Deabes1, Aya M. Ibrahim1, Mariam H. Seliem1, Fatma S. Mohammed1, Aya A. Khalil2, Ahmed T. Khater3, Yasmine Eletreby4 1ndergraduate students, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Horus University, Egypt. 2Department of Biomechanics, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Egypt. 3Department of Biomechanics, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Horus University- Egypt 4Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Horus University - Egypt |
| Abstract |
| Diabetic Polyneuropathy (DPN) is a prevalent complication of both types of diabetes mellitus, primarily due to a chronic hyperglycaemic state. It leads to progressive sensory, motor, and autonomic impairments that are due to multiple peripheral nerves being affected, especially those of the lower extremities. It is worth considering the underlying biomechanical and physiological principles, and this narrative review investigates how DPN compromises muscular function, postural control, gait mechanics, and different ADLs. Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, covering studies from 2010 to 2024. Keywords included: “Diabetic Polyneuropathy”, “gait biomechanics”, “spatiotemporal parameters”, “muscle activation”, and “joint kinematics”. Chosen studies discussed the neuromuscular and biomechanical ramifications of DPN on gait, muscle firing, and postural control. Results: DPN patients showed significant gait alterations, such as reduced step and stride lengths, slower walking speed, and increased double support time. It was further noted that active mobility was limited by uncontrolled muscle activation, reduced ankle and knee joints’ range of motion, and impaired sense of position. Weakness of certain muscles includes reduced dorsiflexor strength, significant exertion, and recruitment of type II muscle fibers in the tibialis anterior and quadriceps femoris. These deficits contributed to increased postural sway, greater center of pressure displacement, and higher energy cost during ambulation. Although the vertical center of mass displacement remained unchanged, altered joint coordination and inefficient muscle use raised metabolic demands. Gait instability and difficulty adapting to uneven terrain increased fall risk and limited daily function. Conclusion: Gait, balance, and muscle performance are greatly affected in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy. Multidisciplinary management should include sensory stimulation, core-stability training, and strength reinforcement. Bearing in mind that a more comprehensive visualization boosts the rehabilitation program for more efficient mobility and life quality in DPN patients. |
| Keywords |
| Keywords: Diabetic Polyneuropathy, gait biomechanics, spatiotemporal parameters, muscle activation, joint kinematics. |
| Status: Abstract Accepted |