Identifying Fall Risk within 6 Months Post-Discharge Through Balance Tasks Analysis in Inpatients with Subacute Stroke: Prospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Background

Balance impairments, stemming from disruptions in motor, and cognitive systems, are key contributors to fall risk.

Objective

This study aimed to identify balance tasks associated with fall risk within 6 months of discharge in inpatients with subacute stroke.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included patients with subacute stroke who completed the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest), Fugl-Meyer Assessment for the Lower Extremities, and Mini-Mental State Examination before discharge. Falls were self-reported via telephone survey six months post-discharge. Logistic regression was used to identify significant predictors, with sensitivity analyses to evaluate robustness.

Results

Among 50 patients, 30% experienced falls within six months. Regression analysis identified stand on one leg (OR = 4.70, 95% CI 1.31–16.85, p = 0.018), compensatory stepping correction of backward (OR = 3.48, 95% CI 1.36–8.92, p = 0.009) and lateral (OR = 3.00, 95% CI 1.02–8.84, p = 0.046) as significant balance tasks associated with fall risk. Forward compensatory stepping corrections were associated with increasing age, whereas standing with eyes closed and walking with head turned horizontally were associated with fall risk in interaction with motor paresis and cognitive integration.

Conclusions

One leg standing and compensatory stepping correction of backward and lateral were significant balance tasks related to fall risk.