Article

Many polio survivors have symptoms that are known risk factors for
falls in elderly people. This study aims to determine the: (i) frequency; (ii)
consequences; (iii) circumstances; and (iv) factors associated with falls in
polio survivors. METHODS: A survey was conducted among 376 polio survivors.
Participants completed a falls history questionnaire and additional information
was obtained from their medical files. RESULTS: Of the 305 respondents, 74%
reported at least one fall in the past year and 60% two or more. Sixteen percent
of fallers described a major injury after a fall in the last year and 69%
reported fear of falling. One-third of fallers had reduced the amount they walked
because of their fear of falling. Most reported falls in a familiar environment
(86%), during ambulation (72%) and in the afternoon (50%). Quadriceps weakness of
the weakest leg (Medical Research Council (MRC) </= 3), fear of falling and
complaints of problems maintaining balance were independently associated with
both falls and recurrent falls, while increasing age and medication use were not.
CONCLUSION: The high rate of falls and consequences thereof, merit the
implementation of fall intervention strategies. To maximize effect, they should
be tailor-made and target the fall mechanisms specific to polio survivors.

Langue : ANGLAIS