Postural Instability
During late stages of Parkinson's Disease, individuals may lose postural reflexes which can increase risk of falls (Jankovic, 2008). The reflexes which should assist an individual in regaining their balance when they become unsteady, may fail (Sawle, 2002). A pull test can be used to assess postural stability by quickly tugging an individual's shoulders backward. Postural instability is noted if an individual takes more than two steps backward or demonstrates the absence of any postural response (Jankovic, 2008). Postural instability, bradykinesia, rigidity and freezing of gait can all contribute to increased fall risk (Jankovic 2008; Sawle, 2002).
|
|