International journal of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Neuromuscular, Balance, and Gait Factors Associated with Falls and Fall-Related Outcomes in Individuals with COPD: A Systematic Review
By Zangi M, Shamsi H, Rahmani Rasa A and 3 others.
Abstract
Background
Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have a higher incidence of falls than age-matched peers, which may result in injury, loss of independence, and reduced quality of life. Although falls have often been attributed to general deconditioning, impairments in muscle strength, balance, and gait may also contribute. This systematic review synthesized evidence on the relationships between these factors and falls or fall-related outcomes in people with COPD.
Methods
PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Scopus and Google Scholar were searched for English-language studies published up to November 2024. Twenty-five original studies involving 1295 participants met the inclusion criteria. Methodological quality was assessed using a modified Downs and Black checklist.