Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2022 · DOI: 10.46292/sci21-00026 · Published: July 1, 2022
Falls are a significant problem for people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) who can walk. After an SCI, changes in leg function can increase the risk of falls. This study reviewed existing research to see how leg function relates to falls in people with SCI. They looked at things like muscle strength and balance. The review found that there isn't a clear connection between how well someone's legs work (as measured by standard tests) and how often they fall. More research is needed to understand why.
Current rehabilitation programs should consider a broader range of factors beyond just lower limb function when addressing fall prevention in ambulatory individuals with SCI.
Future studies should focus on a more comprehensive approach, including behavioral traits, assistive device usage, and environmental risk factors, to gain a better understanding of fall prevalence.
Clinicians should be aware that standard clinical tests of lower limb function may not be reliable predictors of fall risk in ambulatory individuals with SCI.