Citation

Onodera AN, Gomes AA, Pripas D, Mezzarane RA, Sacco ICN. Muscle Nerve 2011; 44(2): 269-277.

Affiliation

Centro de Docência e Pesquisa do Departamento de Fisioterapia, Fonoaudiologia e Terapia Ocupacional, R. Cipotânea, 51, Cidade Universitária, 05360-160 São Paulo, Brazil.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1002/mus.22072

PMID

21698651

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: In this study we investigate the influence of diabetic neuropathy (DN) on lower limb electromyography (EMG) and kinematics during stair negotiation. METHODS: Forty-six adults (healthy and DN) performed stair ascent and descent tasks. Kinematic and EMG data were assessed unilaterally. RESULTS: DN patients had lower ankle dorsiflexion while ascending and plantarflexion while descending. This reduced dorsiflexion compromises proper ankle and knee positions necessary for an efficient lifting action by the vastus lateralis (VL). The mechanical disadvantage of VL at the beginning of the stance triggered prolonged VL activation at the end of stair ascent. In stair descent, DN patients showed lower tibialis anterior activity in the early phase that can potentially impair the mechanism of impact absorption when the forefoot contacts the step. CONCLUSIONS: Our results reveal an adaptive motor strategy in DN patients to overcome the challenge of stair ascent, which promoted more biomechanical deficits.

Language: en