Functional Outcomes Associated With Independence in Walking Among People With Hereditary Ataxias: An Exploratory Cross-sectional Study

This study aimed to identify functional outcomes related to independence in walking among people affected by hereditary ataxias. Sixty participants were selected by convenience in a list provided by an organization of people with ataxia. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected using a semi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:	Physical therapy Vol. 102; no. 4
Main Authors:	Giangiardi, Vivian Farahte, Perracini, Monica Rodrigues, da Silva, Maria Liliane, Setti, Giullia Bianca Rodrigues, Curzio, Leticia Estrella, Vegas, Milena, Alouche, Sandra Regina
Format:	Journal Article
Language:	English
Published:	United States Oxford University Press 01-04-2022
Subjects:	Ataxia Cerebellar Ataxia - rehabilitation Cross-Sectional Studies Humans Orthopedic apparatus Spinocerebellar Degenerations Walking Cross-Sectional Study Hereditary Ataxias Functional Outcomes Walking Independence
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Summary:	This study aimed to identify functional outcomes related to independence in walking among people affected by hereditary ataxias. Sixty participants were selected by convenience in a list provided by an organization of people with ataxia. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected using a semistructured questionnaire. The Assessment and Rating of Ataxia was used to assess and rate cerebellar ataxia. Changes in body structure and function, limitation in activities, and restriction in participation were evaluated with specific outcome measures. Participants were classified as independent in walking if they were able to walk without walking aids or human assistance and as dependent in walking if they have been using walking aids (sticks, crutches, or walkers) for more than 6 months, using a wheelchair for locomotion most of the day, or both. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted hierarchically and in blocks considering upper limbs function, balance systems, sensory functions, postural control, walking, independence, cognition, and perception as independent variables. The prevalence ratio for walking independence was determined. The final regression model pointed out that gait capacity assessed by the 6-Minute Walk Test and dexterity assessed by the Box and Blocks test were the main markers related to walking independence in individuals with hereditary ataxias. The distance covered in 6 minutes of walking (walking endurance) and upper extremity dexterity can be used to better assess the progression of cerebellar disease related to walking independence in individuals with hereditary ataxias. This study supports early detection of individuals who are at risk of loss of walking independence and an optimized rehabilitation plan.
Bibliography:	ObjectType-Article-1 SourceType-Scholarly Journals-1 ObjectType-Feature-2 content type line 23
ISSN:	0031-9023 1538-6724
DOI:	10.1093/ptj/pzac006