Article

OBJECTIVES: To investigate vestibular function, foot sensation, postural control
and functional abilities, and to evaluate whether these variables are associated
with fall-related wrist fracture. METHODS: A case-control study was conducted
with 98 subjects, age range 50-75 years, who had sustained a fall-related wrist
fracture. Forty-eight sex-, age- and physical activity-matched individuals, with
no previous history of wrist fracture, served as controls. Measurements included:
head-shake test (HST), tuning fork, biothesiometer, Semmes-Weinstein
monofilaments (MF), Sensory Organization Test (SOT), Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand Test
(FTSTS), 10-m walk test (10MWT), Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC),
and the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) scales. Logistic regression models
were used to determine associations of variables with a fall-related wrist
fracture. RESULTS: Vestibular asymmetry was apparent in 82% of wrist fracture
subjects and 63% of controls (p = 0.012). Plantar pressure sensation (p <0.001),
SOT composite scores (p< 0.001), 10MWT (p <0.001), FTSTS (p <0.001), ABC (p
<0.001) and DHI (p <0.005) were significantly poorer among cases than controls. A positive HST (odds ratio (OR) 5.424; p = 0.008) and monofilament sensation (OR
3.886; p = 0.014) showed the strongest associations with having a fall-related
wrist fracture. CONCLUSION: Asymmetrical vestibular function and reduced plantar
pressure sensation are associated with fall-related wrist fractures among the
ageing population. These factors are potential targets for future interventions.

Langue : ANGLAIS