Balancing challenges: exploring postural stability in osteogenesis imperfecta

Purpose: Abnormalities in bone structure impact motor functions, including the ability to maintain stable posture. This study assessed static and dynamic balance in patients with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) across different disease types, compared to a healthy population. Methods: The study group included 87 patients with OI: Type I (n = 45), Type III (n = 28), and Type IV (n = 14). Balance was assessed using the AMTI (Advanced Mechanical Technology, Inc.) platform. Measurements in standing (ST) position during anterior-posterior (AP) and medial-lateral (ML) tilts, with eyes open, for 30 seconds. Results: Significant differences in balance parameters under static conditions were found between OI types (61.5% between Types I and III, 38.5% between Types I and IV, and 30.7% between Types III and IV). Across all OI types, maintaining balance predominantly involved displacement of the COP (Centre of Pressure) in the sagittal plane, observed in 84.7% of Type II OI, 75.2% of Type III OI and 74.5% of Type IV OI cases. Under dynamic conditions, significant differences in balance parameters were noted in 84.6% of comparisons between Types I and III, 46.1% between Types I and IV, and 69.2% between Types III and IV. Conclusions: Balance assessment in individuals with OI is essential for injury prevention, improving mobility and daily function, and monitoring therapy effectiveness. Development of more preventive strategies aimed at reducing fracture risk and enhancing the quality of life for these patients. The relatively small number of patients with type III and the wide age range represent limitations of our study.