The effect of a cognitive or motor task on the gait parameters of those with diabetes, with and without neuropathy

Paul, L., Ellis, B.M., Leese, G.P., McFadyen, A.K. and McMurray, B. (2009) The effect of a cognitive or motor task on the gait parameters of those with diabetes, with and without neuropathy. Diabetic Medicine, 26(3), pp. 234-239. (doi: 10.1111/j.1464-5491.2008.02655.x)

Abstract

Aims: To compare the gait parameters of older people with diabetes (DM) and people with diabetes and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and to investigate the effect of a secondary motor or cognitive task on their gait. Methods: Thirty subjects were recruited; 15 with DPN (mean age 69 ±3.0years) and 15 with diabetes and no neuropathy (70 ± 2.9years). The temporal and spatial parameters of gait were evaluated using the GAITRite walkway. Subjects undertook four walks under normal walking conditions (single task); four times while simultaneously undertaking an additional motor task, carrying a tray with cups of water (dual task); and four times whilst undertaking a cognitive dual task, counting backwards in sevens. This arithmetic task was also completed in sitting. Results: For all gait variables there was a statistically significant difference between the groups. Subjects with DPN walked slower and with smaller steps compared to those with diabetes. In general the secondary task had a significant and adverse effect on the gait parameters and this effect was greater for those with DPN in both absolute and relative terms. Both groups had poorer arithmetic ability when walking compared to sitting. Discussion: Patients with DPN have different gait parameters to diabetic patients without neuropathy. Problems with divided attention when walking were more evident in the DPN group and may increase their risk of falls.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: The definitive version is available at www.blackwell-synergy.com Due to a publishers embargo the full text of this article will not be available until December 2009.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Paul, Dr Lorna
• Authors: Paul, L., Ellis, B.M., Leese, G.P., McFadyen, A.K., and McMurray, B.
• Subjects: R Medicine > RC Internal medicine
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Nursing and Health Care
• Journal Name: Diabetic Medicine
• Publisher: Blackwell Publishing
• ISSN: 0742-3071
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2008 Diabetes UK
• First Published: First published in Diabetic Medicine 26(3)234-239
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher.