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An Instrumented Pull Test to Characterize Postural Responses
Published on: April 6, 2019
Rapid assessment of postural instability in Parkinson's disease (RAPID): a pilot study
R K Y Chong1, J Morgan2, S H Mehta2
1Department of Physical Therapy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA.
European Journal of Neurology
|July 1, 2010
Summary
The new RAPID questionnaire effectively identifies postural instability in Parkinson's disease (PD) without physical testing. This tool aids clinicians and patients in recognizing and managing this common PD symptom, potentially reducing falls.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Movement Disorders
- Gerontology
Background:
- The Fahn's pull test is standard for assessing postural instability in Parkinson's disease (PD).
- This test has limitations including standardization difficulties, incorrect administration, and safety concerns for patients with pain.
- A non-physical assessment is needed for PD postural instability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the Rapid Assessment of Postural Instability in Parkinson's disease (RAPID) questionnaire.
- To evaluate the RAPID questionnaire as a non-physical tool for assessing postural instability in PD.
Main Methods:
- Assessed correlations between the Fahn's pull test and a three-part risk-assessment questionnaire.
- Questionnaire components included activities of daily living, fear of falling, and frequency of falling.
Main Results:
- Significant correlations (0.51-0.56) were found between the pull test and questionnaire variables.
- Correlations among questionnaire variables ranged from 0.58 to 0.70.
- The combined questionnaire achieved 96% sensitivity in classifying postural instability.
Conclusions:
- The RAPID questionnaire can supplement or replace the pull test, especially when contraindicated.
- The questionnaire is suitable for telephone or internet administration.
- Early identification of postural instability may decrease fall frequency in PD patients.
