Center of gravity oscillations in HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis

Abstract

Introduction: Postural control in individuals with HTLV-1-associated myelopathy or tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) is usually compromised, which increases the risk of falls, makes it difficult to perform activities of daily living, and impairs the quality of life. The profile of the center of gravity oscillations in this population is unknown and may aid in clinical follow-up and research. Objective: To compare the stabilometric values between HAM/TSP and uninfected individuals and verify the existence of correlations between stabilometric variables and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Method: A cross-sectional observational study was performed with infected individuals, classified as defined and likely (WHO criteria), compared to accompanying persons and seronegative relatives. A baropodometry platform (Footwork®) was used to obtain the oscillation values of the body’s center of gravity in total oscillation area (TOA), anterior-posterior oscillation (APO) and lateral oscillation (LO). Mean values were correlated with BBS by Spearman’s Correlation (5% alpha). Approved by the ethical committee of Escola Bahiana de Medicina e Saúde Pública under Opinion 49634815.2.0000.5628. Results: An asymmetric distribution of all the stabilometric variables analyzed in the HAM/TSP population was found, different from the uninfected group (p < 0.05). It was also possible to verify strong to moderate and inverse correlations between the variables of center of gravity oscillation with the scores obtained in BBS, especially for TOA and LO. Conclusion: People with HAM/TSP presented higher values for the center of gravity oscillations and these were correlated with the BBS in the balance evaluation.

Research scenario in physiotherapy for people with human t-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV): scientometric study / Cenário das pesquisas em Fisioterapia para pessoas com Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV): estudo cientométrico

“…Based on the observational studies, it is confirmed that the main problems that affect these patients involve disorders of gait 21,22,8,23 , balance 24,25,26 , pelvic floor 27,28 spasticity 29,30 and pain 10,31,32,33 . These dysfunctions affect daily life activities 5,34 and quality of life 35 .…”

Providing a Nursing Care Plan as a Requirement for Secondary Prevention for People Living With HTLV-1

“…Environmental control has been instituted as an intervention to achieve a safe home environment ( 17 – 19 ). It is common for patients with HTLV-1 to report falls and even fear of falls ( 26 ); therefore, some changes in the environment in which the patient lives are necessary.…”