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Introduction Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the most common endocrine disorder, affecting over 100 million people globally. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is particularly prevalent, with projections indicating a rise in global prevalence from 8.8% in 2017 to 9.9% by 2045. India, in particular, has the highest number of diabetic patients. T2DM patients often experience peripheral neuropathy and muscle weakness, leading to postural instability and gait issues. This study aims to assess the dynamic postural stability in T2DM patients and its correlation with the duration of diabetes. Methods An observational study was conducted from February 2024 to June 2024 at the University College of Physiotherapy and the Department of Medicine, Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital, Faridkot. Thirty patients with T2DM, aged 40-60, were enrolled. The Y-Balance Test (YBT) was used to evaluate dynamic postural stability. Patients performed reach tests in three directions: anterior (AN), posteromedial (PM), and posterolateral (PL). The composite reach distance was calculated for each leg, and the composite percentage was determined. Results The study included 16 males and 14 females with a mean age of 53.2 years and an average diabetes duration of 5.723 years. The composite reach percentages for the left and right legs were 68.43% and 68.37%, respectively. Significant correlations were found between the reach distances of both legs, particularly in the AN, PM, and PL directions. A negative correlation was observed between diabetes duration and composite reach percentages, indicating that longer diabetes duration is associated with greater impairment in dynamic postural stability. Discussion The findings suggest that patients with longer durations of T2DM have compromised dynamic postural control, increasing their risk of falls and lower limb injuries. The YBT, derived from the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), is effective in assessing these deficits. The results align with previous studies, confirming the impact of diabetes on postural stability. Conclusion Dynamic postural stability declines with the increasing duration of T2DM, regardless of the presence of diabetic complications. Regular assessment using the YBT can help in early identification and management of postural instability in T2DM patients, potentially reducing fall risk and associated injuries.
Sambyal et al. (Thu,) studied this question.