Diabetic Polyneuropathy Threatens Crucial Foot Muscle
Diabetic neuropathy, a common complication of type 2 diabetes, can cause pain and tingling in the quadratus plantae muscle of the feet. This small but crucial muscle plays a significant role in foot stability and movement.
The quadratus plantae, located in the sole of the feet, extends from the calcaneus to the tendons of the flexor digitorum longus muscle. Its primary function is to resist toe extension, thereby increasing foot stability. Additionally, it helps align the pulley of the flexor digitorum longus with the length of the feet and assists in toe flexing.
Diabetic neuropathy can impair the function of this muscle. It causes nerve degeneration, leading to weakness or paralysis of intrinsic foot muscles, including the quadratus plantae. This results in altered foot biomechanics, making it difficult to flex the toes. An improperly functioning quadratus plantae can lead to heel pain and claw toe deformity.
Diabetic neuropathy can significantly impact the quadratus plantae muscle, affecting foot stability and movement. This can result in heel pain and claw toe deformity, highlighting the importance of managing diabetes and its complications to maintain overall foot health.
