Association between the Horizontal Gaze Ability and Physical Characteristics of Patients with Dropped Head Syndrome

Background and Objectives: Patients with dropped head syndrome exhibit weakness of the cervical paraspinal muscles. However, the relationship between horizontal gaze disorder and physical function remains unclear. This study aimed to examine and clarify this relationship. Materials and Methods: Ninety-six patients with dropped head syndrome were included. We measured the McGregor's Slope and investigated physical characteristics, including cervical muscle strength, back muscle strength, and walking ability. Factor analysis was used to classify the characteristics of physical function, and a linear multiple regression analysis was used to evaluate independent variables explaining the variance in the McGregor's Slope. The physical functions of DHS patients were classified into three categories by factor analysis: limb and trunk muscle strength, walking ability, and neck muscle strength. Results: The average value of the McGregor's Slope was 22.2 ± 24.0 degrees. As a result of multiple regression analysis, walking speed (β = -0.46) and apex (β = -0.30) were extracted as significant factors influencing the McGregor's Slope. Conclusions: Horizontal gaze disorders are not associated with cervical muscle strength but with the walking ability and the alignment type of dropped head syndrome.