Evaluation of muscle strength, balance and functionality of individuals with type 2 Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease

•Balance instability occurs due to weakness of the specific muscles of the foot.•The plantar flexor muscles are important for the maintenance of functional activities.•Postural instability is greater in the anterior-posterior direction with closed eyes. Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is part of a group of genetically determined neuropathies. The intrinsic muscles of the feet and legs are affected early in the disease, impacting balance and mobility. Research question: The purpose of this study was to evaluate individuals with type 2 Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease to understand how motor changes interfere in balance and function. The sample comprised 15 individuals with CMT2 from the same family (CMT2G) and a control group (CG) of healthy individuals matched for age and gender. The CMT individuals were classified using the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Neuropathy Score (CMTNS). Muscle strength of the ankle was assessed using a manual dynamometer. Balance was measured using a stabilometer and Berg's Balance Scale (BBS). Functional performance was measured by the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG). There was a statistically significant difference between the CMT2G and the CG for right side (RS) and left side (LS) muscle strength (dorsiflexors-RS and LS: p