Gait and Postural Control Deficits in Diabetic Patients with Peripheral Neuropathy Compared to Healthy Controls

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of type 2 diabetes that impairs gait and balance, increasing fall risk. This study investigated gait characteristics and postural control in individuals with DPN compared to age- and gender-matched healthy controls. Fifteen DPN patients and fifteen controls underwent assessments of gait, static balance, and mobility. Gait parameters were measured during overground walking using motion capture and force platforms. Static balance was evaluated via tandem stance tests (eyes open/closed) while mobility was assessed with the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. We hypothesized that DPN patients would exhibit altered gait and reduced mediolateral (ML) postural stability during walking. Results showed no significant differences in ML Time-to-Contact, center-of-pressure excursion, or velocity during walking between groups. However, DPN patients demonstrated significantly slower gait velocity (-26\%, p < 0.001), shorter step length (-11\%, p = 0.035), and impaired static balance, failing tandem stance tests significantly earlier than controls (p < 0.01). TUG performance was also poorer in the DPN group (p = 0.001). These findings suggest that while dynamic postural control during walking may be preserved, DPN patients exhibit gait adaptations and significant static balance deficits, highlighting the need for comprehensive balance assessment in this population.