Impaired Dynamic Balance Is Associated with Falling in Post-Stroke Patients

Falling is one of the most common complications of stroke. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of falling on cognitive and physical function in post-stroke patients. Further, the predictive factors associated with independence of activity of daily living (ADL) in stroke patients with falls experience were investigated. Sixty-six participants were divided into 2 groups according to history of falling: faller (n = 34) and non-faller (n = 32). All participants were examined for cognitive and physical function. Static balance was measured by postural sway using a force platform. Dynamic balance was measured using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Modified Rivermead Mobility Index (MRMI), which shows the degree of performance for balance tasks. ADL was measured using the Modified Barthel Index (MBI), which shows the degree of independence. The fallers showed lower cognitive and physical function than the non-fallers (p < 0.05). This finding indicates that falling is associated with reduced physical function, as well as reduced cognitive function. In the fallers, the ADL (MBI) was moderately correlated with each of cognition [MMSE (r = 0.388, p = 0.023)], dynamic balance [MRMI (r = 0.514, p = 0.002) and BBS (r = 0.572, p < 0.000)]. In addition, regression analysis showed that BBS was a primary predictor for ADL performance (R-2 = 0.327, beta = 0.572, p < 0.000). Our findings indicate that enhancement of dynamic balance is needed to improve in activities necessary for normal self-care of stroke patients with falls experience.