Postural stability, fall risk, and effects of balance-based exercise in acromegaly

Acromegaly may impair balance and increase fall risk. We aimed to evaluate postural stability, fall risk, and vestibulo-ocular reflex function in patients with acromegaly and to assess the effects of a balance-oriented exercise program.

Single-center, prospective case-control study with an exercise intervention.

Thirty-two patients with acromegaly (15 active, 17 inactive) and 32 age-, sex-, and body mass index-matched sedentary healthy controls were enrolled. Balance was assessed using computerized dynamic posturography along the anterior-posterior (AP) and medial-lateral (ML) axes. Vestibulo-ocular reflex function was evaluated with the video head impulse test. Clinical assessments included the Berg Balance Scale, International Falls Efficacy Scale, and Dizziness Handicap Inventory-Short Form. Fifteen patients with balance impairment completed an 8-week home-based exercise program, with outcomes reassessed afterward.

Patients had lower preference AP, visual ML, vestibular ML, and global AP/ML scores than controls (P < .01). Berg Balance Scale scores were lower, whereas fall risk, fear-of-falling, and dizziness scores were higher in patients (P < .05). Fourier analysis demonstrated increased sway amplitudes with low-frequency dominance under static and dynamic conditions (P < .05). Global AP/ML scores were lower in active than inactive patients (P < .05). Vestibulo-ocular reflex gains were similar between groups (P > .05). Exercise significantly improved balance and clinical scale scores (P < .05).

Balance impairment and increased fall risk may occur in acromegaly, likely due to deficits in central sensory integration. Balance-oriented rehabilitation may improve postural control and reduce fall risk in this population.