Stride time variability identified as key fall risk factor in post-stroke ataxia
Stride time variability (STV) is a sensitive and reliable indicator of fall risk in patients with ataxia after a stroke, making it a valuable tool for identifying high-risk individuals and guiding fall prevention efforts, according to a study.
The study included 33 patients with ataxia following stroke, divided into groups based on their fall history. Researchers assessed motor function, cognitive performance, and daily living abilities, along with measuring walking speed and STV.
Fallers had significantly higher STV, lower scores on balance assessments, and worse ataxia ratings compared to non-fallers. Logistic regression identified STV as the strongest predictor of fall risk, with a cutoff value of 6.345% demonstrating 80% sensitivity and 74% specificity for identifying high-risk patients.
The results underscore STV as a critical metric for evaluating fall risk in patients with post-stroke ataxia.
Reference
Yamasaki Y, Arai T, Takaishi S, et al. Increased stride time variability is associated with a higher risk of falls in patients with ataxia after stroke. Physiother Theory Pract. 2024;40(12):2916-2924. doi: 10.1080/09593985.2023.2286334.
