Authors (including presenting author) :
Leung NC(1), Lam CSC(1), Chan TY(1), Chan LH(1), Leung KY(1), Fung MLE(1
Affiliation :
(1) Occupational Therapy Department, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital
Introduction :
Individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA) are at a significantly elevated risk of falls. The primary causes were related to destabilization during walking. For those who are awaiting joint replacement surgery, falls can adversely impact on the postoperative recovery. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness and implication of functional fall assessment at preoperative stage.
Objectives :
To evaluate the effectiveness of functional fall assessment in patients with OA knee at pre-operative stage
Methodology :
Patients with knee OA who were scheduled knee replacement surgery were seen at preoperative stage. Apart from evaluating patient’s’ history and occupational profile, a comprehensive fall assessment was conducted using the Booguu Aspire Fall Risk Management system. It is a technology designed for assessing motions and analyzing risk indicators in elderly. Patients were required to wear the Aspire device and perform 4 functional tasks, during which their postural stability and dynamic movement were analyzed. Five scores were obtained, presenting the fall risk in each task and the overall risk. The scores range from 1-10, with lower score indicating higher risk. Independent t-tests were used to compare the results.
Result & Outcome :
A total of 104 patients were included. They were divided into faller (n=32) and non-faller (n=72) groups based on the fall history in the past year. Comparative analysis revealed significant differences in fall risk indicators between two groups. The faller group exhibited significantly lower scores in the overall fall risk (2.06 vs 4.71, p<0.001), the fall risk in eyes-opened standing balance test (5.44 vs 8.21, p<0.001), eyes-closed standing balance test (4.03 vs 7.21, p<0.001), sit to stand test (2.63 vs 4.26, p=0.002), and walking test (3.19 vs 4.99, p=0.001).
Implementing comprehensive functional fall assessment is effective in identifying individuals with high fall risk. This enables occupational therapists to personalize fall prevention strategies. Addressing the risks through preoperative assessment and targeted interventions can help mitigate fall risk in this vulnerable population. It is crucial for improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare burdens associated with fall-related injuries. In additional, the fall assessment results, in conjunction with age and the severity of osteoarthritis, may serve as an indicator for fast-tracking the joint replacement surgery to optimize patient outcomes.
