Balance Deficits are Correlated with Bronchial Obstruction Markers in Subjects with Asthma

[Purpose] Balance deficits are increasingly recognized in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, but little is known regarding this issue in asthma. Our primary aim was to assess the correlation between postural balance and pulmonary function in adults with asthma. Secondarily, we aimed to correlate balance with functional capacity and body mass index in these subjects. [Methods] A cross-sectional study of 26 adults with asthma was performed in which they were subjected to stabilometry, pulmonary function testing, a 6-minute walking test, and nutritional assessment. [Results] We found significant correlations of forced expiratory volume at one second (ρ=-0.49) and total lung capacity (ρ=0.39) with mediolateral displacement with feet apart/eyes open. Significant correlations were observed between peak expiratory flow and a number of stabilometric parameters. There were several significant correlations between airway-specific conductance and the tasks performed on the force platform, especially one with the feet apart/eyes open. The Berg Balance Scale revealed significant correlations with mediolateral displacement, mediolateral range, and anteroposterior range for feet together/eyes closed (ρ=-0.49). There were no significant correlations between stabilometry, body mass index, and six-minute walking distance. [Conclusion] In adults with asthma, there is an association between balance and the bronchial obstruction markers. This finding may contribute to improvement of rehabilitation programs for these subjects.