Device or not device...what is the APA program the best for patients with neurological disability? Pilot study.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare effectiveness of two programs of APA in patients with neurological disability in order to reduce the risk of fall and to improve state of global health. Forty-six patients with MS, PD and Stroke, divided in APA group (adapted physical exercises) and APA-D group (with devices). Each group participated in two 60-minute weekly sessions for 2 months, they were tested at T0, T1 and at follow-up 6 months about: FIM, Tinetti, Berg Balance, TUG, 6MWT, Hads, EuroQol, Cop, Walking Analysis. Both groups, in the T1 phase, showed an increase level of performance and health status, though the APA_D group presented a more pronounced decrease in the risk of fear of fall for balance variable (T0_T1:Tinetti: 30%; Berg: 30%; Tug: 18,3%; Cop: 52,1%). Results demonstrate fall risks relationship with “functional tests” currently used to measure dynamic balance, and its accuracy in predicting falls in neurologic subjects.