Can a Novel Beam-Walking Test Improve Fall Risk Assessment in Service Members, Veterans, and Civilians Who Use Lower-Limb Prostheses?
Abstract
The purpose of the proposed research is to improve the assessment of fall risk among unilateral lower limb prosthesis (LLP) users. The scope of the proposed research includes establishing the validity and reproducibility of contemporary clinical balance test, including the Narrowing-Beam Walking Test (NBWT). This is to be accomplished by administering the NBWT and four contemporary performance-based balance tests to 60 lower limb prosthesis users, who are then followed prospectively for 6 months to identify fall events. We have completed recruitment and enrollment of study participants at both study sites (UIC and UW), all prospective data collection, and all data analyses. Dissemination efforts have resulted in nine manuscripts (5 published, 2 in review, 2 in prep), five invited talks or symposia, and seven posters or podium presentations. Our Narrowing Beam Walking Test has also been adopted and implemented by a prosthetic manufacturer (Ohio Willow Wood), and several academic/clinical sites (e.g., Minneapolis VA, Center for the Intrepid, Seattle VA, Delft University, and Emory University). Our research was also featured in the CDMRP FY19 Annual Report. Our principal finding is that a model combining performance-based balance tests and the number of falls recalled over the past year can predict the number of future falls in established, unilateral LLP users. This is the first study to develop a model that clinicians can use to predict future falls in established unilateral LLP users.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1126322
Entities
People
- Andrew Sawers
- Brian J Hafner
Organizations
- University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign