Sensory impairments and wrist fractures: A case-control study

Abstract

To access publisher's full text version of this article, please click on the hyperlink in Additional Links field or click on the hyperlink at the top of the page marked FilesOBJECTIVES: To investigate vestibular function, foot sensation, postural control and functional abilities, and to evaluate whether these variables are associated with fall-related wrist fracture. METHODS: A case-control study was conducted with 98 subjects, age range 50-75 years, who had sustained a fall-related wrist fracture. Forty-eight sex-, age- and physical activity-matched individuals, with no previous history of wrist fracture, served as controls. Measurements included: head-shake test (HST), tuning fork, biothesiometer, Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments (MF), Sensory Organization Test (SOT), Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand Test (FTSTS), 10-m walk test (10MWT), Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC), and the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) scales. Logistic regression models were used to determine associations of variables with a fall-related wrist fracture. RESULTS: Vestibular asymmetry was apparent in 82% of wrist fracture subjects and 63% of controls (p = 0.012). Plantar pressure sensation (p <0.001), SOT composite scores (p< 0.001), 10MWT (p <0.001), FTSTS (p <0.001), ABC (p <0.001) and DHI (p <0.005) were significantly poorer among cases than controls. A positive HST (odds ratio (OR) 5.424; p = 0.008) and monofilament sensation (OR 3.886; p = 0.014) showed the strongest associations with having a fall-related wrist fracture. CONCLUSION: Asymmetrical vestibular function and reduced plantar pressure sensation are associated with fall-related wrist fractures among the ageing population. These factors are potential targets for future interventions.St Josef's Hospital Fund, Reykjavik, Iceland Icelandic Physiotherapy Association Research Fund Landspitali University Hospital Research Fund Icelandic Gerontological Society Research Fund Helga Jonsdottir and Sigurlidi Kristjansson Geriatric Research Fun