ABSTRACT

Bone mineral density abnormalities can cause falls due to imbalance and movement limitation. Morbidities that result from a fall mean a loss of functionality and quality of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between bone mineral density and gait, balance, and fear of a fall in epileptic patients.

A total of 104 patients were separated into 3 groups according to T-score. A metabolic serum profile analysis was performed, and the Tinetti Gait and Balance Scale (TGBS), the Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), the Short Cognitive Examination (SCE), the Beck Depression Scale, and the Neurocom Balance Master tests were administered.

In the osteoporosis group, the duration of medication use and the FES scores were high, the TGBS score and level of vitamin D were low, eyes-closed balance was more affected, and the degree of sway and turning to the left was greater, and tandem-walk speed was reduced. Positive correlations were found between age of onset and the TGBS and SCC scores, eyes-closed balance and duration of medication use, and FES score and eyes-open balance. Negative correlations were determined between the number of drugs used and the FES, TGBS, and CCM scores, as well as tandem-walk speed.

Simple clinical tests can be administered in outpatient clinics to address the risk of falling due to gait and balance abnormalities in osteoporotic epileptics. Prevention can improve patient quality of life.

Keywords: Balance, falls, osteoporosis, gait