Association between Physical Function at Discharge and Fall Frequency One Month after Discharge in Patients with...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a neurodegenerative disease impacting balance and increasing fall risk.
• Understanding factors contributing to falls is crucial for patient management and intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between fall frequency and various functional measures in PSP patients.
• To identify specific balance and motor control aspects associated with recurrent falls in PSP.

Main Methods:

• The study included 54 patients diagnosed with PSP.
• Multiple logistic regression analyzed associations between fall frequency (≥2 falls/month) and PSP severity, walking, balance, and cognitive/frontal lobe function.
• Balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale and Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest).

Main Results:

• The Mini-BESTest demonstrated a significant association with fall frequency in PSP patients.
• Analysis of Mini-BESTest subitems revealed that anticipatory postural adjustments were significantly linked to fall frequency.

Conclusions:

• Anticipatory postural adjustment ability appears to be a key factor associated with fall frequency in PSP.
• These findings suggest that impaired anticipatory postural control may contribute to recurrent falls in individuals with PSP.