BioMechanics

April 2007

LBP may increase risk of falls in patients with Parkinson's disease

By: Jordana Bieze Foster
http://www.biomech.com/showArticle.j...leID=198800927

Researchers from Ohio State University report that back pain symptoms significantly increase the risk of falling in patients with Parkinson's disease-a finding that is particularly alarming in light of the known association between PD and osteoporosis.

Investigators reviewed the medical records of 84 patients with PD and found that 42 had reported back pain symptoms and/or received diagnostic confirmation of a back disorder. Of those with back pain in whom relevant data were available, 66% reported having had a fall within the previous six months, compared with 41% of those without back symptoms.

Only two of the 84 patients had documentation of bone mineral density testing in their medical records, despite the fact that patients with PD have previously been shown to have increased risk of low vertebral and hip BMD.

The findings were presented in February at the APTA's annual Combined Sections Meeting.

Very interesting, Carolyn. I have developed lower back pain in the last few months, presumably as yet another bout of plantar fascitis (sp?) has thrown off my gait. So, I have a chicken or the egg question.. Are PWPs falling more as a result of any kind of back pain or from its association with gait and posture issues?

Sheryl