Research Information System
SIVAS II. INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON SCIENTIFIC AND INNOVATION RESEARCH, Sivas, Turkey, 15 - 17 September 2023, vol.1, no.1, pp.653-663, (Full Text)
Abstract
Introduction: Foot problems affect approximately 6% of individuals
with type 2 diabetes and include infection, ulceration and destruction of foot
tissues. These problems cause disruption of normal gait, loss of sensation and
functionality. As a result, patients quality of life deteriorates, their social
participation and livelihoods are affected. In this study, it was aimed to
examine the relationship between gait parameters and foot protective sense.
Methods: 103 patients with type 2 diabetes (46 females, 57 males;
mean age 57.7±9.8
years) were included
in the study. Protective sense was evaluated with Semmes-Weinstein monofilament
test for the feet and two-point discrimination test for the tibial nerve. Time
Up and Go (TUG) test, gait speed and cadence were measured as gait parameters.
Results: The
monofilament test results showed a poor correlation with HbA1c, TUG, gait
speed, and cadence. In addition, there was a poor correlation between tibial
sensation and TUG, while left tibial sensation showed a poor correlation with
gait speed and cadence (r:-0.194 to 0.374, p<0.05).
Discussion:
According to the results of our study, there is a poor relationship between
foot protective sense
and gait parameters. With this result, out hypothesis was accepted. Loss of
foot protective sense is a common problem in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
It’s even known that the senses of tactile, vibration, proprioception and
kinesthesia are reduced in individuals with type 2 diabetes for a long time.
Sense feedback from the visual, vestibular and proprioceptive systems is
essential for normal gait. Since there is sensory loss in individuals with type
2 diabetes, gait parameters are also affected. Our advice to clinicians is that
they should not ignore the evaluation of foot protective sense in individuals
with type 2 diabetes.
Keywords: Type 2 diabetes, Gait, Diabetic foot, Foot protection sense.