Background
Falls and fall-dependent complications represent major problems in geriatrics. Approximately 80–90% of femoral neck fractures in postmenopausal women are caused by falls.
Study question
The goal of this study was to evaluate a new posturographic measurement system (Interactive Balance System, IBS) regarding its potential to predict falls in osteoporotic patients.
Materials and methods
A total of 228 patients admitted for osteodensitometry because of suspected osteoporosis were included in the study. During the baseline investigation, bone density and postural regulation were measured. Over a follow-up period of 12 months, all falls were recorded in a fall diary. Participants with more than two falls per year were classified as persons at high risk of falling.
Results
In patients with confirmed osteoporosis (n=139), the posturographic frequency range F2–4 was found to be predictive for falls. The ROC analysis of the dependent fall index FIORF2–4 showed an AUC value of 0.88.
Conclusion
IBS is an effective assessment for fall prediction in osteoporosis. Especially peripheral-vestibular regulation mechanisms seem to be of great importance in the evaluated patient group.