Relationship between spinal mobility and alignment to risk of falls

Imbalances in spinal alignment have been reported to relate to postural instability and falls.

This study aimed to determine the relationship between spinal mobility and alignment to risk of falling.

One hundred and ten subjects, ranging in age from 53-93 years old, took part in this cross-sectional study which involved a self-report measure, and partaking in medical imaging of the spine.

Results demonstrated that lumbar lordosis (sway back), and limited extension in the lumbar spine, are both significant predictors of falling.

Reference:

Ishikawa, Y., Miyakoshi, N., Hongo, M., Kasukawa, Y., Kudo, D., & Skimanda, Y. (2017).  Relationships among spinal mobility and sagittal alignment of spine and lower extremity to quality of life and risk of falls. Gait & Posture, 53, 98-103.