Postural stability in 55 non-insulin-dependent diabetics was compared with that of 53 non-diabetic controls matched for age and gender. The study was conducted in a primary care clinic using a computerised postural sway system. Changes in the centre of pressure while the subjects stood on a force platform were recorded, and sway parameters were computed using customised software. Clinical data were obtained by interview, physical examination and case record review.
Results of the study showed that non-insulin-dependent diabetics were more unstable than the non-diabetic controls for four of the six parameters studied, namely L, the length of the sway path; Vel, the average speed of the centre of pressure along its path; A, the area enclosed within the path of the centre of pressure; and Ae, the 95% confidence elliptical area. These differences remained significant after adjusting for height, weight, adequate sleep and alcohol intake on the night before testing, and a history of bone or thyroid disorders.
Among diabetic subjects, significant factors associated with postural stability were age, weight, the presence of peripheral neuropathy or cataract, metformin use, and HbA1c levels >9%. Further studies are indicated to examine factors affecting postural stability, other than diabetic neuropathy, in greater depth.
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The author(s) declare there are no affiliations with or involvement in any organisation or entity with any financial interest in the subject matter or materials discussed in this manuscript.
