Article

This study investigates (i) the potential discriminative role of a
clinical measure of peripheral neuropathy (PN) in assessing postural performance
and fall risk and (ii) whether the integration of a simple screening vibration
perception threshold (VPT) for PN in any physical (fall risk) assessment among
elderly should be recommended, even if they do not suffer from DM. METHOD: One
hundred and ninety-five elderly were entered in a four-group model: DM with PN
(D+; n = 75), DM without PN (D-; n = 28), non-diabetic elderly with idiopathic PN
(C+; n = 31) and non-diabetic elderly without PN (C-; n = 61). Posturographic
sway parameters were captured during different static balance conditions (AMTI
AccuGait, Watertown, MA). VPT, fall data, Mini-Mental State Examination and Clock
Drawing Test were registered. Two-factor repeated-measures ANOVA was used to
compare between groups and across balance conditions. RESULTS: The groups with PN
demonstrated a strikingly comparable, though bigger sway, and a higher
prospective fall incidence than their peers without PN. CONCLUSIONS: The
indication of PN, irrespective of its cause, interferes with postural control and
fall incidence. The integration of a simple screening for PN (like
bio-thesiometry) in any fall risk assessment among elderly is highly recommended.
Implications for Rehabilitation The indication of peripheral neuropathy (PN),
irrespective of its cause, interferes with postural control and fall incidence.
Therefore, the integration of a simple screening for PN (like bio-thesiometry) in
any fall risk assessment among elderly is highly recommended. It might be useful
to integrate somatosensory stimulation in rehabilitation programs designed for
fall prevention.

Langue : ANGLAIS