Relationship between Sensory Neuropathy and Body Imbalance among Diabetic Malay Women

Neuropathy is a problem often suffered by patients with diabetes mellitus. Types of neuropathy that occur are peripheral neuropathy and autonomic neuropathy. This cross sectional study was conducted to determine the association between duration of diabetes and loss of protective sensation and the association between imbalance and loss of protective sensation among Malay women with diabetes mellitus. Eighty one Malay women. with diabetes mellitus, aged 20 to 60 years from three clinics in Hulu Langat District participated in this study. Socio-demographic information were obtained from respondent using a questionnaire. Foot sensory evaluation was conducted using Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament grade 5.07. Assessment of balance was done using Timed One-leg Stance. Chi-squared test was used to determine the association between the two variables. Result showed that 56.8% of respondent had loss of protective sensation on at least one foot. While, 17.3% had imbalance while eyes were open and 60.5% experienced imbalance while eyes were closed. However, there was no significant correlation (p<0.05) between imbalance while eyes opened [chi(2)=3.27, p=0.07] and while eyes close [chi(2)=0.29, p=0.59]) with loss of protective sensation in at least one foot. Similar result were obtained between duration of diabetes and the loss of protective sensation. (chi(2) =3.27, p=0.20). Although there was no association between these factors, a screening program should start early to ensure early problems are identified before more severe complications occur.