Balance assessment in HTLV-1 associated myelopathy or tropical spastic paraparesis

Abstract

Introduction: A good rating of the device in people with HTLV-1 in this population is essential for accuracy in prescribing data (walking). Thus, this study aimed to analyze the counterpart assessment methods that are best suited to patients with human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV)-1 associated myelopathy or tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). Methods: This cross-sectional study related stabilometric and kinematic variables of postural oscillations with Berg's balance scale (BBS) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) in subjects with HAM/TSP compared to asymptomatic subjects. To assess the posterior and lateral postural projection, baropodometry and the Footwork® system was used, and the CVMob system was applied to kinematic parameters. The means comparison tests and correlations were applied with an alpha of 5%. Results: Thirty-nine subjects (predominantly female) made up the sample. There was an increase in barodopometric oscillations, in the total oscillation area (p = 0.004), in the anteroposterior oscillation in the left (p = 0.015) and right views (p = 0.036), and in the lateral oscillation (p = 0.039) in the HAM/TSP group. Moderate correlations were found between oscillation baropodometry and the angular variation of the ankle, as well as with the BBS in the three angles and the TUG for lateral oscillation (p = 0.406). Conclusions: Each method has advantages and disadvantages, including cost accuracy. The best resources available at no additional cost for outpatient to use are the kinematic evaluation using a simple smartphone camera and free analysis software, and the TUG.

Physiotherapy Methods Applied in the Prevention of Functional Loss Associated with Human T-Lymphotropic Virus 1 Infection: An Overview

“…By assessing balance in people with HAM/TSP, Patrício et al (2020) [29] point out that this population has a high balance deficit, and that the use of tools available at no additional cost in outpatient clinics, such as free software for movement analysis (e.g., CYMOB), help identify movement pattern discrepancies and analyze gait performances. Arnaut (2014) [30] also contributed to the investigation on the use of Nintendo Wii as virtual therapy in the treatment of pain and quality of life, positively impacting these two variables.…”

Wearable Devices and Smartphone Inertial Sensors for Static Balance Assessment: A Concurrent Validity Study in Young Adult Population

“…Currently, the most accurate instrument for objective quantification of static balance control evaluation is the force platform, which records the center of pressure displacements on the anteroposterior and mediolateral axes. However, due to the high cost and difficulty in handling this tool, it is mainly restricted to well-trained evaluators working in research centers [ 4 ]. Thus, to overcome these limitations, more accessible and portable tools can be used in an outpatient setting to assess static balance, such as smartphones or wearable devices that include built-in inertial sensors [ 5 ].…”