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Bulletin of Faculty of Physical Therapy
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Alterations of static and dynamic balance in patients with lumbar radiculopathy

Bulletin of Faculty of Physical Therapy volume 24, pages 49–55 (2019)Cite this article

Abstract

Background

Lumbosacral radiculopathy (LR) is strongly associated with delayed recovery and persistent disability. Chronic LR may lead to somatosensory system impairment, resulting in decline of postural balance.

Purpose

The aim of the study was to investigate static and dynamic postural balance alterations in individuals with LR owing to lumbar disc herniation.

Participants and methods

In this case–control study design, 12 patients presenting with unilateral LR were included, whereas 12 normal individuals were randomly selected for control. Static balance was assessed functionally using Functional Reach Test. Dynamic balance was assessed via Biodex Balance System, where postural stability indices and the dynamic limits of stability were evaluated. Dynamic limits of stability parameters were expressed as direction control and time required to complete the test.

Results

There was significant reduction of mean values of Functional Reach Test in LR group (P<0.0001) when compared with the control. In addition, there was a significant increase of the mean values of overall stability index (P<0.0001) and postural stability indices (P<0.0002) and a significant decrease of the mean values of direction control (P<0.0001) in the LR group.

Conclusion

Patients with chronic LR have shown to have limited functional abilities and decreased postural balance both statically and dynamically when compared with normal individuals.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, 7 Nabil El Waked Street, Marwa Buildings, Nasr City, Cairo, 11342, Egypt

    Mary K.N. Takla PT, PhD

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  1. Mary K.N. Takla PT, PhD
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Correspondence to Mary K.N. Takla PT, PhD.

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Takla, M. Alterations of static and dynamic balance in patients with lumbar radiculopathy. Bull Fac Phys Ther 24, 49–55 (2019). https://doi.org/10.4103/bfpt.bfpt_22_18

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/bfpt.bfpt_22_18

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