A Cross-Sectional Study on Balance Deficits and Gait Deviations in COPD Patients

BACKGROUND: The gait abnormalities were linked to the balance deficits in the previous studies. However, the deviations in the gait parameters in COPD are currently not known. The study aims to compare gait parameters, static and dynamic balance, and risk of falls in COPD with those in non-COPD individuals. METHOD: Fourty-two patients with COPD aged 45 years and gender-matched control subjects were included in the study. Gait parameters were assessed by Win-Track gait analyzer, the static balance was assessed by posturography, and the dynamic balance was assessed by the time up and go test. The fear of falls was assessed by Falls Efficacy Scale. RESULTS: COPD individuals had decreased static and dynamic balance as assessed by posturography (p < 0.05) and TUG (p < 0.01), respectively. A significant difference in swing duration (p=0.004) and also increased risk of falls (p < 0.01) was observed in COPD patients as compared to non-COPD individuals. CONCLUSION: COPD individuals have increased swing duration, reduced static and dynamic balance, and increased fear of falls as compared to non-COPD individuals.