Abstract
<jats:p>Diabetic neuropathies are one of the most prevalent complications of diabetes, affecting nearly half of diagnosed patients. There are many different types of diabetic neuropathy, with each one varying greatly in severity and symptomatic presentation. One aspect of diabetic neuropathy that will be explored in this case study is its role in balance impairment. The case of a 71 year old male with a long-standing history of poorly controlled Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus will be discussed. Secondary to this is a history of diabetic neuropathy, which has largely manifested in the form of ataxia, unsteady gait, and increased falls in the dark. This case study discusses the patient’s medical history, clinical course, and treatment options. The impact of diabetic neuropathy on the somatosensory, visual, and vestibular systems are also discussed, particularly in the context of this patient’s symptoms. The purpose of this report is to provide medical professionals with a deeper understanding of balance impairment secondary to diabetic neuropathy. Doing so will allow treatments to become more targeted, effective, and better improve a patient’s quality of life. Furthermore, the treatment of balance impairment will also help mitigate fall risk, which is one of the most dangerous complications of long-standing diabetic neuropathy in elderly patients.</jats:p>