Static and dynamic balance impairment and relationship with disease-related factors in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A cross-sectional study

• Published in: Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift 2021-11, Vol.133 (21-22), p.1186-1194
• Main Authors: Eymir, Musa, Yakut, Hazal, Özalevli, Sevgi, Alpaydın, Aylin Ö.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Endocrinology; Gastroenterology; Internal Medicine; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Original Article; Pneumology/Respiratory System
• ISSN: 0043-5325; 1613-7671
• DOI: 10.1007/s00508-021-01918-8

Summary Background Disease and aging-related factors may predispose chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients to impaired balance, although the underlying determinants of impaired balance in COPD patients are still unknown. The purpose of this study was to identify the determinants of impaired balance in COPD patients. Also, we aimed to determine which balance measures (clinical or laboratory tests) are more indicative in determining balance impairment in these patients. Methods This cross-sectional study recruited 24 patients with moderate to severe COPD and 24 age-matched healthy subjects. Participants were evaluated regarding demographic and clinical data, previous falls history, lower limb muscle strength, exercise capacity, physical activity and balance level. Results COPD patients exhibited significantly a longer test duration on timed up and go test, a higher sway index on the postural stability and lower directional control score on the limit of stability of Biodex balance system (all, p   0.05). Balance impairment of the patient group was significantly associated with nonpulmonary conditions, such as physical activity level, exercise capacity, lower limb muscle strength, and with fall history. Also, COPD patients represented significantly lower physical activity level and exercise capacity, weaker lower limb muscle strength than healthy controls (all, p