Objectives. To compare gait characteristics and functional balance abilities in men with LUTS secondary to BPH to those of matching controls under different conditions of increasing difficulties; single-task, dual-task motor, and dual-task cognitive. Subjects and methods. In this cross-sectional experimental study we recruited a group of 43 men diagnosed with symptomatic BPH and control group of 38 older men. Participants performed the timed up and go (TUG) and 10-meter walking tests under different conditions of increasing difficulties. Namely, single task, dual-task motor, and dual-task cognitive. Time to complete the tests and spatial and temporal gait parameters were compared between groups and conditions via mixed-design ANOVA. Results. Under dual-task conditions, individuals in both groups performed significantly worse in a functional balance task and a simple walking to usual walking. However, as the complexity of the walking task increased, from dual-task motor to dual-task cognitive, significant differences between groups emerged. In particular, men with PBH performed worse than older adults in tasks demanding increased attentional control. Conclusion. Health care providers for men with LUTS due to BPH should assess for abnormal gait and maintain vigilant for balance problems that may lead to decreased mobility and falls. Dual task approach seems a feasible method to distinguish gait and balance impairments in men with BPH.
Al-Yahya, EmadMohammad, Maha T.Muhaidat, JenniferAl Demour, SaddamQutishat, DaniaAl-Khlaifat, LaraOkasheh, RashaLawrie, SophieEsser, PatrickDawes, Helen
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences\Department of Sport, Health Sciences and Social Work
Year of publication: 2019Date of RADAR deposit: 2019-03-12