Association Between Plantar Pressure and Fall Risk in Patients with Diabetic Neuropathy: An Observation Study

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the collective term with main symptom of chronic hyperglycemia leading to one of the most important complication-Diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic patients with neuropathy are at high risk for the development of ulcers which might lead to falls due to high plantar pressure and sensory loss. Typically, in terms of diabetic neuropathy population, it is important to assess the factors that might cause falls in this population. As these populations are more prone to falls, factors responsible for falls should be identified. Physiotherapists who are qualified to prescribe exercise should know these factors with the goal of preventing falls. Additionally, comprehending the fall risk among the diabetic population is essential for conducting successful fall prevention programs and might aid in knowledge transfer to other developing nations. There is a dearth of studies that compare plantar pressure and fall risk in diabetic neuropathy patients in large populations between TUG and PP, using plantar pressure force systems (portable and wireless), especially in the Indian population. Hence, this study aims to find the association between plantar pressure and fall risk in diabetic neuropathy patients leading to falls. The result of the study will be useful for the therapist to rehabilitate and educate the patient about the fall risk and how to prevent it. In addition, these assessment methods are cost effective and portable which benefits the patient and the therapist.