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Published on: December 11, 2013
Dynamic postural stability in pregnant fallers and non-fallers
J L McCrory1, A J Chambers, A Daftary
1Division of Exercise Physiology, Department of Human Performance and Applied Exercise Science, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA. jmccrory@hsc.wvu.edu
Summary
Pregnant women who fall during pregnancy exhibit altered dynamic postural stability compared to non-fallers and controls. Regular exercise may help prevent falls in pregnant individuals.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Biomechanics
- Kinesiology
Background:
- Falls are common during pregnancy, potentially impacting maternal and fetal health.
- Understanding changes in dynamic postural stability is crucial for fall prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare dynamic postural stability between pregnant women who have fallen, those who have not, and non-pregnant controls.
- To investigate the relationship between exercise participation and fall history in pregnant women.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal and cross-sectional study involving pregnant women and a non-pregnant control group.
- Dynamic postural stability assessed using force plate measurements of reaction time and center of pressure (COP) sway.
- Statistical analyses included mixed-model ANOVA and chi-square tests.
Main Results:
- 52% of pregnant women reported falls.
- Pregnant women who fell showed smaller initial sway, total sway, and sway velocity compared to non-fallers and controls.
- Sedentary pregnant women were more likely to fall than those who exercised regularly.
Conclusions:
- Dynamic balance is significantly altered in pregnant women who experience falls.
- Regular exercise appears to be a protective factor against falls in pregnant women.
