IMPACT OF BASOPHOBIA ON BALANCE AND FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES IN PATIENTS WITH STROKE

Abstract

Background: Patients with a stroke are more likely to have a fear of falling (FoF), which has been associated with reduced physical activity, deconditioning, uncertainty, and, finally, a loss of independence due to their limited mobility and balance.

Purpose: To determine how basophobia affects patients with chronic stroke in terms of their ability to balance and function. Methodology: There were two equal groups of 80 stroke patients. Study group (A) experienced basophobia, whereas the control group (B) did not. The overall stability index (OSI) and fall risk index (FRI) were evaluated using the Biodex balance system; gait dysfunction and the ability to carry out dual tasks were evaluated using the dynamic gait index (DGI); balance issues were assessed through the Berg balance scale (BBS) and the timed up and go test (TUG); while the fear of falling was measured with the 16-item Fall Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I). Results: the experimental group (group A) showed a notable improvement over the control group (group B) on the 16-item FES, TUG, FRI, and OSI, while the BBS and DGI showed significant decreases. Conclusion: Stroke patients with FoF showed poor dynamic balance, which was associated with poor performance, limited mobility, and an increased risk of falling.