The Effects of Protective Sensation on Functional Capacity, Peripheral Muscle Strength, and Balance in Patients with...

Diabetes-related foot complications are among the most common complications in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The prevention of foot problems that are at risk of developing because of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be addressed within the framework of preventive approaches prior to treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate protective sensation in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus who have not been diagnosed with early diabetes-related foot complications and to investigate the effects of protective sensation on peripheral muscle strength, balance, and functional capacity.

This study included 42 volunteer patients (56.71 ± 7.59 years) who were followed up with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus and met the inclusion criteria. Individuals were evaluated prospectively and via face-to-face interviews. Light-touch, vibration, and discrimination sense was evaluated to determine protective sensation. Peripheral muscle strength (quadriceps femoris, biceps brachii, and hand grip) was measured and a 6 min walking test for functional capacity and balance evaluation were performed. Spearman correlation analysis was conducted using SPSS Statistics 21.0 for data analysis.

At least one of the components of protective sensation was moderately correlated with peripheral muscle strength, functional capacity, and balance scores. Reduced protective sensation was also observed in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus without neuropathy.

In type 2 diabetes mellitus patients, decreases in light-touch, vibration, and discrimination sense are moderately associated with parameters of peripheral muscle strength, functional capacity, and balance. In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, early foot sole sensory examination may prevent the development of neuropathy and support clinicians in early diagnosis.